Along with most of western Kentucky, Marion and Crittenden County have been declared part of a Level 2 drought by the state climatologist office. Despite recent rainfall, the City of Marion’s Water and Sewer Department encourages customers to begin following certain steps aimed at conserving water. These steps are voluntary. There is no mandatory water conservation order being issued at this time.
- Water lawns less than one inch per week, between the hours of 6 p.m., and 6 a.m.
- Water golf courses and athletic fields no more than one inch per week, between the hours of 6 p.m., and 6 a.m. If critical areas show visible signs of stress, water at additional minimum rates necessary between noon and 4 p.m.
- •Use commercial car wash facilities and detail shops instead of hand washing.
- •void washing impervious and paved surfaces, except for prewashing in preparation for painting, recoating or sealing.
- Avoid using water for ornamental fountains, artificial waterfalls, reflecting pools and ornamental ponds, except for the minimum amount of make-up water necessary to maintain aquatic life.
- Avoid using water to power wash buildings and other structures except when necessary to meet public health and safety standards.
- Avoid filling hot tubs, spas and whirlpool tubs, except for health and rehabilitative purposes or for the minimal amount necessary to maintain structural integrity and the filtration system. If the drought is still present next Spring, this advisory would also include swimming pools.
There is no immediate threat to the Marion water system due to the Level 2 drought, said City Administrator Mark Bryant. However, any recent or forecasted rains are not sufficient enough to end the drought and the precautionary measures listed above may help in offsetting any problems if the drought persists, he said.
