San Antonio Enters SAWS Stage 2 Drought

San Antonio is once again facing tightened water restrictions as the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) moves the city into Stage 2 drought conditions. Triggered by persistently low levels in the Edwards Aquifer, these new rules are crucial for conserving our vital water supply and require immediate adjustments from all residents to ensure our community’s long-term water security.

Understanding San Antonio’s Shift to Stage 2

Effective May 30, 2024, SAWS initiated Stage 2 drought restrictions across San Antonio. This critical change became necessary after the Edwards Aquifer’s 10-day average level dropped below 650 feet, a key trigger point for intensified conservation efforts. As the primary source of San Antonio’s drinking water, maintaining the aquifer’s health through responsible use is paramount, particularly during extended dry periods and the intense summer heat we often experience.

For San Antonians, this isn’t an unfamiliar situation; our city has a history of adapting to drought conditions. However, each stage brings more stringent rules designed to collectively reduce our water footprint and safeguard this essential natural resource for current and future generations.

What Stage 2 Means for Your Water Use

The most significant change for most residents involves outdoor watering practices. Under Stage 2, the familiar “Two-Day-A-Week” schedule is replaced with a stricter “Once-A-Week” regimen for automatic sprinklers and irrigation systems. Your specific watering day is now determined by the last digit of your street address, helping to spread demand across the week.

New Outdoor Watering Schedule (Sprinklers & Irrigation)

It’s crucial to remember that watering is strictly prohibited outside these designated hours and days. However, hand-held hoses, drip irrigation, and soaker hoses remain permitted any day, any time. These methods offer excellent flexibility for targeted watering of specific plants without incurring violations, promoting smarter water use in your landscape.

Other Important Stage 2 Water Rules

Stage 2 also tightens rules on other common water uses beyond the lawn:

• **Impervious Surfaces:** Washing driveways, sidewalks, patios, and other hard, non-absorbent surfaces is strictly forbidden, as this typically wastes significant amounts of water.
• **Ornamental Fountains:** Fountains, waterfalls, and other decorative water features cannot operate unless they use recirculated water, preventing constant fresh water usage and evaporation.
• **Vehicle Washing:** You may only wash your car or other vehicles once a week, and only on your designated watering day. Alternatively, using a commercial car wash that reclaims and recycles water is always an encouraged, water-efficient option.
• **Swimming Pools:** Filling new pools requires a specific permit from SAWS. Existing pools must use a cover when not in use to significantly reduce evaporation losses, especially during hot, windy San Antonio days.

Why Conservation is Crucial for San Antonio’s Future

San Antonio’s long-term water supply and economic stability depend heavily on our collective ability to conserve during drought periods. The Edwards Aquifer is not only a vital water source for our growing metropolitan area but also supports a unique underground ecosystem. Every gallon saved by residents and businesses helps ensure future availability for both our community and the fragile environment it sustains. Adhering to these restrictions is more than just avoiding potential fines; it’s a direct contribution to safeguarding San Antonio’s future prosperity and environmental health.

SAWS actively provides numerous resources and rebates to help residents adopt more water-efficient practices. This includes incentives for installing smart irrigation controllers, choosing native and adapted landscaping that thrives on less water, and conducting free irrigation check-ups. Taking advantage of these programs can help you reduce your water bill, maintain a vibrant landscape, and comply with restrictions more easily.

When Will Restrictions Change?

Stage 2 restrictions will remain in effect until the Edwards Aquifer’s 10-day average level rises above 650 feet for a consecutive 10-day period. Conversely, if the aquifer drops further, below 640 feet, SAWS could activate Stage 3 restrictions, bringing even tighter rules. Historically, San Antonio frequently moves between drought stages, emphasizing the ongoing importance of staying informed and integrating water conservation into our daily routines, even when restrictions temporarily ease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stage 2

• What is the penalty for violating Stage 2 restrictions?
  Violations can result in fines, starting from $100 for a first offense and increasing for subsequent violations. SAWS has enforcement officers, and they also encourage neighbors to report violations via the SAWS website or phone line to help enforce compliance across the community.
• Can I still fill my swimming pool or add water?
  Filling new pools requires a specific permit from SAWS, which can be obtained online. Existing pools can be topped off to maintain operational levels, but always use a hand-held hose with a positive shut-off nozzle. Remember, covering your pool when not in use is mandatory to reduce evaporation.
• Are commercial car washes still open for business?
  Yes, commercial car washes that recirculate and reclaim water are exempt from the residential watering day rule and can operate as usual. These facilities are often more water-efficient than washing your car at home, making them a recommended option during drought stages.
• How do I find out my specific watering day?
  Your designated watering day is determined by the last digit of your street address. Addresses ending in 0 or 1 water on Monday, 2 or 3 on Tuesday, 4 or 5 on Wednesday, 6 or 7 on Thursday, and 8 or 9 on Friday. This information is also readily available on the SAWS website.
• What if I have newly planted landscaping or sod?
  Newly planted trees, shrubs, and sod have specific exemptions for a limited establishment period, typically 30 days, allowing for more frequent watering to ensure survival. However, you must obtain a new landscape permit from SAWS beforehand to qualify for these exemptions.

As San Antonio navigates these Stage 2 drought conditions, remember that every resident plays a critical role in preserving our precious water resources. By understanding and diligently adhering to the new rules, we can collectively work towards a sustainable water future for our vibrant and growing city, ensuring that the Edwards Aquifer continues to support us all.

San Antonio Enters Stage 2 Drought