‘Drier months are ahead’ – Seasonal watering restrictions begin

Utilities Kingston is advising the public that the seasonal watering restrictions have begun in the city.

The restrictions are in effect from Sunday, Jun. 15, 2019 to Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, and are in effect to ensure a reliable supply of adequate water reserves and pressure, along with fire protection. During this time, residents and businesses with odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered days, and those with even-numbered addresses may water on even-numbered days.

The City of Kingston water by-law allows residents and businesses to use a hand-held hose, can, or bucket at any time on their scheduled day, and to use a sprinkler between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. on those scheduled day. Residents and businesses are reminded they can use water from rain barrels at any time.

“While rains have been heavy and frequent, drier months are ahead. Water and wastewater treatment infrastructure is built to handle peak demand times,” said Julie Runions, manager of water and wastewater treatment for Utilities Kingston.

“During summer months, we use the most treated water from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,” Runions continued. “Reducing use during these times delays the need to expand pumping stations and treatment facilities, while also ensuring adequate supply for fire protection.”

Reducing outdoor water use also reduces the pollutants that end up in the lake. This is because much of the water from sprinklers and hoses runs off into the storm sewer, picking up pollutants that end up in Lake Ontario, Kingston’s source of drinking water, according to Utilities Kingston.

Residents area also encouraged to practice ‘water wise gardening,’ by using a rain barrel, following best watering practices, amending soil with organic content, and incorporating drought tolerant plants to help reduce treated water use. Residents are invited to learn more about this at the Water Conservation Garden.

For more information, contact the City of Kingston at 613-546-0000 and say ’utilities’ or ‘conservation,’ or look on the Utilities Kingston website. Learn more about water conservation, water wise gardening, and exemption permits for those with new lawns, trees or shrubs here.