Water restrictions continue despite recent heavy rains Published May 8, 2009 By Russell Adams 78th Civil Engineering Group ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- With the heavy rains in late March and early April, it is easy to forget that Middle Georgia, including Houston County and the immediate surrounding counties, remains under outdoor watering restrictions. Below average rainfall in 2006 and 2007 resulted in a drought that brought Georgia into the national spotlight last summer, with low lake levels in many north Georgia lakes and reservoirs. To conserve water in times of drought, Georgia, through the Department of Natural Resources, developed state-wide restrictions regarding the use of water outdoors. Outdoor water use includes watering of lawns, turf grass and ornamental shrubs; washing vehicles; washing structures, pavements and sidewalks; and washing non-mission essential equipment. The water use restrictions were established in a tiered approach so that as the drought worsens, the use of water for outdoor activities decreases. Middle Georgia is currently in a Level II Drought Response. Rainfall at the base in 2008 was above average, in large part due to higher than average rainfall during the fourth quarter. However, rainfall in the first quarter of 2009 was still more than four inches below the quarterly historic average, despite some heavy rains in March. Although the drought may officially be over, according to state rules, it takes four months of improved conditions before outdoor watering restrictions can be eased. In the interim, base personnel and residents should remember that water conservation efforts are critical to protecting this resource. In addition to mandatory outdoor watering restrictions, employees are encouraged by the Environmental Protection Division and the base to conserve water use indoors. Some ways to conserve water include repairing dripping faucets and leaking toilets, installing water-saving shower heads, and turning off the water while brushing teeth, shaving and lathering up in the shower.