(New Braunfels, TX – April 9, 2021) – New Braunfels and surrounding communities have been in Stage 1 Drought Restrictions since October 19, 2020. The recent rise in temperatures increased water use, and lack of significant rainfall is causing the Edwards Aquifer levels to drop. Today, the 10-day average of the J-17 well is 655.2-feet, which is only about five feet above the trigger for Stage 2 drought restrictions. As temperatures continue to rise, and if we do not receive significant rainfall, we anticipate Stage 2 drought restrictions could go into effect within the next few weeks.
New Braunfels Utilities expects water demand to increase as summer approaches. Chief Communications and Strategy Officer Melissa Krause noted, “New Braunfels Utilities encourages customers to conserve water year-round, especially lawn irrigation. New Braunfels Utilities has a number of programs in place and information available to help customers conserve and manage their utility bills.”
While in Stage 2 water restrictions, the schedule for the use of a sprinkler or irrigation system is as follows:
Addresses ending 0 or 1: Monday
Addresses ending 2 or 3: Tuesday
Addresses ending 4 or 5: Wednesday
Addresses ending 6 or 7: Thursday
Addresses ending 8 or 9: Friday
Use of a hand-held hose, bucket, soaker hose, or drip irrigation system, or a soaker hose that does not spray water into the air is allowed on any day BEFORE 10:00 a.m. and AFTER 8:00 p.m. during Stage 2. The use of a sprinkler or irrigation system is not permitted on the weekends during Stages 1, 2, or 3.
Stay informed of the latest watering requirements by visiting nbutexas.com, facebook.com/newbraunfelsutilities, or by calling the NBU water hotline at 830.608.8925. In addition to providing a complete copy of the New Braunfels Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan, nbutexas.com is also a great place to obtain a landscape watering guideline for New Braunfels, request a virtual assessment, and explore tips for saving water - both inside and outside the home.
New Braunfels Utilities customers are reminded that peak tiered water rate increases take effect June 1 and remain effective through September 30. Conservation measures can help to manage your utility bill. To learn more, visit nbutexas.com/conservation.
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