Water Conservation Alert: Temporary Irrigation Suspension for Hilton Head Residents on October 29 and 30

Water Conservation Alert for Hilton Head Residents

HILTON HEAD, S.C. — Attention all residents and visitors of beautiful Hilton Head Island! A friendly reminder that there will be a temporary change in water usage recommendations for our community during the upcoming days of October 29 and 30. The Hilton Head Public Service District (PSD) and the Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA) are requesting everyone to refrain from running their irrigation systems during this brief period. But let’s delve into why!

What’s Happening?

BJWSA is embarking on an important construction project that requires the temporary shutdown of one of its water treatment plants. This project is part of an exciting expansion plan to increase the capacity of the Purrysburg Treatment Plant from 15 million gallons per day to a whopping 30 million gallons per day. With an investment of $60 million, the completion of this project is expected by the summer of 2025!

Although Hilton Head continues to have an ample supply of water, this temporary shutdown may limit how much BJWSA can provide to our lovely island. General Manager Verna Arnette mentioned, “We scheduled this work for a time when water demands for irrigation are not as great, as many irrigation systems begin to be decommissioned for the winter months.” So, it’s convenient timing for this adjustment!

What Does This Mean for You?

During this time, the utility can still provide plenty of water from the Chelsea Treatment Plant and local drinking water wells, so there is no need to worry about getting thirsty! However, to ensure that water pressure remains steady throughout the community, pouring on your irrigation systems on the specified days should be avoided, and this is purely a precautionary measure.

According to Pete Nardi, General Manager of Hilton Head PSD, “This is a good reminder of the tremendous value of water to our communities, and how we all share a responsibility to use water efficiently at all times.” Isn’t it great to be reminded of our roles as responsible water users? Not only does this help our community, but it also contributes to sustainable practices for the future!

Just a Little More on Irrigation

Did you know that residential landscaping irrigation usually accounts for 40 to 60% of the annual drinking water demand on the island? That’s a high number! The early morning hours can especially put strain on our water distribution systems, so a small pause during the 29th and 30th can really help alleviate potential pressures.

Here’s a quick heads-up on local irrigation regulations:

• If your home has an even-numbered address, you can water on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
• If your home has an odd-numbered address, stick to Wednesdays and Sundays.
• For commercial properties, watering is permitted on Mondays and Thursdays only.

Watering Efficiently

In conjunction with this temporary request, BJWSA is also rolling out an Irrigation Management Plan that aims to reduce peak demand. Customers are encouraged to adjust irrigation timers to water only three days per week, and it’s all about symmetry! Odd-numbered addresses should plan for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, while even-numbered addresses should water on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. And remember, no irrigation should occur on Mondays or during the early morning hours of 3 a.m. and 9 a.m. when water usage is typically at its highest.

Stay Informed!

For those who want to master water efficiency in their home or business, you can dive deeper into useful tips by visiting the following recommended websites. And don’t forget that you can track your water usage through the PSD’s user-friendly online portal!

Thanks for contributing to water conservation efforts in our community. Together, we can make a big difference! Let’s do our part and keep Hilton Head Island as wonderful as it is!