As the threat of drought looms over the city of Hewitt, officials have taken proactive measures to conserve water and ensure the sustainability of the city’s water supply. Recently, the Hewitt City Council adopted updated water conservation and drought contingency plans to address the challenges posed by potential water shortages.
One of the key changes in the new water conservation plan is the prohibition of landscape irrigation between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. This restriction aims to reduce water wastage during peak hours of the day when evaporation rates are high. Additionally, residents will be limited to watering their lawns three days per week when the city purchases water from the city of Waco.
Hewitt typically relies on Waco water during the summer months, particularly from July to September. However, the city primarily sources its water from wells in the Trinity Aquifer, supplemented by treated water from Lake Waco and Lorena. The decision to implement these restrictions is part of a proactive approach to extend the lifespan of the city’s current water supply.
When Hewitt transitions to using Waco water, residents will be notified through various channels, including water bills, mass emails, and social media posts. The three-day watering schedule will be enforced, with odd-numbered addresses allowed to water on specific days different from even-numbered addresses. Nonresidential customers will also have designated watering days, with a complete prohibition on outdoor water use on Thursdays.
Violations of the outdoor water use restrictions will be treated as Class C misdemeanors, with fines of up to $2,000. These measures align with Waco’s recent implementation of three-day-per-week watering restrictions for individual customers, reflecting a regional effort to conserve water resources.
As Hewitt continues to grow, with population projections indicating a steady increase over the coming years, the city is focused on sustainable water management practices. The Texas Water Development Board projects a significant rise in population by 2070, underscoring the importance of water conservation efforts to meet future demand.
To achieve long-term sustainability, Hewitt has set specific targets to reduce water consumption, aiming to lower gallons per capita daily usage by 2025. These goals are part of a broader strategy to improve water use efficiency and ensure the longevity of the city’s water supply system.
In collaboration with the Brazos G Regional Planning Group, Hewitt is working towards aligning its water conservation efforts with regional water management objectives. This coordinated approach aims to support the city’s strategies and contribute to a more sustainable water future for the region.
Overall, the updated water conservation and drought contingency plans in Hewitt reflect a proactive and forward-thinking approach to water management. By implementing these measures and engaging in regional collaboration, the city is taking significant steps towards ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for its residents now and in the future.