FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 16, 2001

Contact:             Pat Libbey, Public Health and Social Services Director, 360-786-5581

COUNTY SEEKS HELP IN TRACKING DROUGHT PROBLEMS

OLYMPIA -- The drought that began last winter in Western Washington is continuing and some water wells are being impacted in Thurston County.  In order to keep track of the situation in the unincorporated area, Thurston County officials are asking affected homeowners to report when their water wells go dry.  County health director Pat Libbey says, "It's important for us to know where the problems exist, so we can track the areas which have the most severe situation.  That way we will be able to better predict the impacts in any given aquifer, not only for this drought but for future events as well."  So far in Thurston County, more than a half-dozen wells have been confirmed as dry because of the lack of rainfall.  The exact number is unknown because reporting is not required.

The county has set up a special telephone line for homeowners to report dry wells.  The number is- 360-786-5459.  The automated phone line allows residents to report their situation easily and quickly.  The phone messaging system also provides a second number so homeowners can contact an environmental health specialist if they need to.  Homeowners can also submit their information on-line at http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/health.

Libbey says it's also important for homeowners to begin conserving water.  "All of the drinking water in Thurston County comes from groundwater sources.  That means even if your well isn't going dry, the water you use may pull supplies away from a home that has a well that is not as deep as yours."  Conservation steps include-

§        Repair leaking plumbing fixtures, indoors and out.

§        Install low flow toilets and water fixtures.

§        Turn off the faucet while shaving or brushing teeth.

§        Run clothes and dishwashers off hours, and only when full.              

§        Do outdoor watering only once a week and only an inch at a time.

§        Water before 10 AM or after 7 PM.

§        Remember, a brown lawn this summer will come back with the fall rains. 

Libbey says, "The water problems may become more pronounced over the next several months and that's why we need to take steps now to track the impacts of the drought.  In addition, being a good "water neighbor" may make the situation easier for those who draw their water from shallow aquifers."  

Additional water conservation information and links to drought related sites can be found on Thurston County's web site at www.co.thurston.wa.us/tc_news_drought.htm