Make sure you have a full load before running your washing machine or dishwasher. Also see the Washington Department of Health drought website. For more useful information on how to save water and use it more wisely, visit the American Water Works Association WaterWiser website . Click on books or links . The drought will affect all water utilities in the state.
Water utilities provide water to people s homes and businesses.
The Washington Department of Health , the state agency responsible for working to protect the quality and quantity of drinking water, is coordinating information on how utilities are responding to the drought. Please contact your individual water utility for more information on water conservation . The Governor may order individual state agencies and political subdivisions within any drainage basin or sub-basin to implement, within a time certain following the declaration, a water conservation or curtailment plan or both, approved under ORS 536.780. Water curtailment plans shall be developed to provide water necessary for human and livestock consumption during a severe, continuing drought. Under ORS 536.770, the Commission, a local government or public corporation may purchase an option or enter an agreement to use an existing permit or water right, for the purpose of distribution for any beneficial use during the drought.