WRANGELL, Alaska (KINY) — The City and Borough of Wrangell has issued a Stage 1 Water Shortage Watch due to declining reservoir levels and continued high water consumption. While this alert is precautionary, current water capacity and flow conditions meet the criteria for the advisory.
The Borough’s Water Shortage Management Committee is closely monitoring the situation. Despite forecasts predicting significant rainfall, the advisory has been issued out of caution in case those weather predictions do not materialize. If rainfall occurs as expected, the Stage 1 watch will likely be lifted.
Officials will continue to assess water resources in line with the Water Shortage Management Plan. Any changes in conditions will be promptly communicated. Residents with questions or concerns can contact the Public Works Department at (907) 874-3904.
Water Conservation Tips
Wrangell officials are asking residents to voluntarily conserve water. Here are some tips:
Inside the Home:
- Turn off the faucet while washing hands or brushing teeth.
- Use a sink filled with water when shaving.
- Take short showers instead of baths.
- Fill the sink to wash dishes or pre-rinse them before using the dishwasher.
- Avoid using the toilet as a wastebasket.
- Repair or replace leaking plumbing fixtures. Consider installing low-flow toilets, which use 1.6 gallons per flush or less. (A small leak can waste more than 4,000 gallons of water per month.)
Water Recycling Tips:
- Collect water from the shower while adjusting the temperature and reuse it for plants or other purposes.
- Recycle water from pet dishes, flower vases, leftover cooking water, and dehumidifiers for other uses.
Outside the Home:
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways, steps, decks, and sidewalks.
- Wash cars using a bucket of water; if using a hose, attach an automatic shut-off nozzle.
- Water lawns and gardens during the coolest parts of the day and avoid watering on windy days.
- Use mulch around shrubs and garden plants to reduce evaporation and minimize weed growth.
Residents are encouraged to share this information with their households and businesses and discuss ways to reduce water waste.
