After implementing less strict stage 1 water restrictions May 17, officials said the Edwards Aquifer continued to drop about one foot each day, triggering stricter measures.
“Our area has had very little rainfall this year. Since January, New Braunfels has received just over 9.5 inches, compared to 12.51 inches of rain this same time last year. This, coupled with very high temperatures lately, creates an increased demand on water consumption,” New Braunfels Utilities CEO Ian Taylor said. “Even though NBU has a resilient and diverse water supply, conservation is essential.”
With the restrictions, customers are allowed to use a sprinkler or irrigation system one day per week before 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m. based on the last digit of their address.
The schedule for outdoor water use is as follows:
- Addresses ending in 0 or 1: Monday
- Addresses ending in 2 or 3: Tuesday
- Addresses ending in 4 or 5: Wednesday
- Addresses ending in 6 or 7: Thursday
- Addresses ending in 8 or 9: Friday
With stage 2 restrictions in place, residents are only allowed to water with a handheld hose, bucket, soaker hose, or a drip irrigation system before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m., whereas with stage 1 restrictions, they may do so at any time.
The ordinance also prohibits outdoor fountains and waterfalls, requires a variance confirmation from NBU for watering new landscaping and limits at-home vehicle washing to watering days and times.
Officials warn that without rain, it is possible the city could reach stage 3 within a few weeks. The latest watering information can be accessed at any time by visiting www.nbutexas.com or calling the NBU Water Hotline at 830-608-8925.
