City asking residents to voluntarily conserve water

Renton supplements its aquifer-based water sources with additional supply from Seattle Public Utilities, which announced its conservation plan earlier this summer.

By Brian Beckley • August 13, 2015 4:14 pm

Though the city insists its water supply is not in any danger of drying up, they are joining the efforts of surrounding municipalities and asking residents to voluntarily cut water usage by 10 percent.

The move to a voluntary conservation stage was announced Tuesday.

Renton supplements its aquifer-based water sources with additional supply from Seattle Public Utilities, which announced its conservation plan earlier this summer. Because the water supply issues affects the entire regional system, SPU has asked all of its partners to do their part to conserve water.

The move is bought on by the driest May and June on record and the potential for a drier-than-usual fall season. Beginning conservation efforts now should ensure plenty of supply later.

According to information provided by SPU, a 10 percent reduction in water use throughout the system would equate to about 15 to 20 million gallons per day, given current water use rates

The city is offering the following tips on how to reduce your water usage:

Outdoor Tips:

• Let your lawn go dormant and limit plant watering to twice a week;

• Water plants before 8 a.m. (best) or after 7 p.m.;

• Wash your vehicle(s) at locations that recycle the water;

• Do only essential pressure washing;

• Minimize refilling swimming pools and hot tubs;

• Turn off water features; and

• Remember, fall is the best time for planting.

Indoor Tips:

• Reduce your showering time;

• Check for and fix leaks;