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October 14, 2011

New emergency water plan gets OK

By Trent Moore The Cullman Times

CULLMAN — Though it’s been a few years since the last significant area drought, Cullman officials are keeping the emergency water management plan updated in case another severe dry spell occurs.

Water use restriction for the City of Cullman and all subsequent wholesale and retail water customers will be triggered by water levels in Lake Catoma — currently the area’s only major water source. The Cullman Utilities Board is in the early phases of building a secondary reservoir in the Duck River watershed, though it will not be usable for at least another two to three years.

City attorney Roy Williams said the new plan includes some minor adjustments, and brings the city’s plan in line with the other water systems around the county. Cullman sells water to every major water system in Cullman County, including East Cullman, the VAW, Walter, Johnson’s Crossing and the Cullman County commission.

“It’s very similar to the previous ordinance, and the other water systems wanted us to tweak ours to work in their systems,” Williams said. “So, this is not only recommended by our folks, but also by the other water systems.”

The various phases of water management are activated by a decree from the mayor, at the recommendation of local water officials.

Phase I will go into effect if Lake Catoma is 10 feet below full pool, and call for water customers to voluntarily conserve water.

Phase II goes into effect when the lake is 15 feet below full pool, and includes some basic restrictions. Sidewalk and pressure washing is not allowed; no recreation swimming pools can be filled (except for medical purposes); charity car washes are banned; leaks must be repaired; lawn watering is limited to Tuesdays; and vehicle washing is limited.

* Read more in the Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, print or e-edition of The Cullman Times.

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