DURHAM — The hot, dry weather may be welcome, but it’s putting a strain on the water supply.

“We’re starting to experience difficulties in our reservoirs to meet demand,” says Greg Lymer, manager of technical support for Durham Region.

No reservoir has gone dry, but Regional officials are asking residents to cut down on any unnecessary water use, such as car or driveway washing.

The Region has a bylaw that restricts lawn watering to the ‘odd-even’ system. Anyone with an odd-numbered address would water their lawn on an odd-numbered calendar day, while an even-numbered address would be watered on an even-numbered calendar day. The bylaw is in place from May to September and is mandatory.

“It’s in place every summer, especially in times of a hot, dry period,” Mr. Lymer states.

“The forecast looks hot and dry going forward,” he says, adding the lack of rain has also been a factor affecting supply levels.

The Region is hoping to avoid having to restrict all outside water use, he says. “Right now, it’s odd-even usage.”

Even though most of the region borders Lake Ontario, Mr. Lymer says it’s possible for Durham to experience a water shortage. The water still needs to be treated and then pumped to reservoirs, he adds.

“We have to meet ministry guidelines. We only have a certain amount of capacity,” Mr. Lymer notes.

“If the current hot weather and water use trends continue, we may have to consider mandatory water restrictions,” he adds.

Homeowners can also conserve water by only watering grass when necessary. A healthy lawn requires 2.5 centimetres (one inch) of water per week, including rainfall. Free rain gauges are available through the Region to help you measure how much water your lawn receives, and to avoid over-watering.

For more water conservation tips and information on where you can get your free rain gauge, visit www.durham.ca/waterconservation, or call the Region of Durham’s Technical Support Division at 905-668-7711 (toll-free 1-800-372-1102).