Water Conservation Measures

NTMWD Relaxes Stage 3 Water Restrictions

Recent rainstorms helped fill Lake Lavon and Jim Chapman to near or above normal levels, long term weather forecasts are improving and on-going water conservation efforts by consumers combined to allow NTMWD to return to published Stage 3 water provisions. 

The Stage 3 water use reduction goal of 10% remains in place.  Melissa water customers are now allowed to use irrigation systems once a week - currently users are restricted to watering once every two weeks. 

Activities now allowed under Stage 3 include:

• Operation of ornamental fountains
• Hydroseeding, hydromulching, and sprigging
• Swimming pools may now be drained and refilled

The City of Melissa remains committed to conservation and is still maintaining efforts to reduce water use, and residents are urged to continue to conserve water. While residents and businesses are allowed to water once weekly, they are encouraged not to water at all unless needed.  Warnings will be continue to be issued to those not in compliance and further noncompliance can result in a citation and fine. 

Restrictions under Stage 3 include:

• No outdoor watering is allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• No hosing of paved areas, buildings or windows at any time.
• No washing or rinsing of vehicles by free-running hose.
• No use of water that allows runoff or other water waste.
• No landscape watering during any form of precipitation.

Additionally customers are urged to check the control units and rain sensors on their irrigation to prevent unnecessary usage, and to repair any water leaks around the house. 

Stage 3 restrictions are still needed due to the on-going issue with zebra mussels in Lake Texoma which normally provides 28% of NTMWD's water supply.  NTMWD will continue to monitor and evaluate the lake levels, cities' goals performance and long term weather forecasts on a monthly basis to determine if Stage 3 actions can be further relaxed. 

Below are some great resources on how you and your family can help conserve water while saving some money on your water bill too!

Helpful Articles:

 Keeping Your Lawn Alive During Drought - AgriLIFE EXTENSION, Texas A&M System (Courtesy of NTMWD)

 Drought Proofing Your Landscape - AgriLIFE EXTENSION, Texas A&M System (Courtesy of NTMWD)

 Dallas Area Lawns Need Help - Provided by Steve Huddleston, senior horticulturist at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, and Ben Wherley, a turf grass specialist at the Texas AgriLife Urban Solutions Center in Dallas. (Courtesy of NTMWD)

Pictures provided courteous of NTMWD