As drought conditions continue across North Carolina and the region, the City of Monroe is declaring Stage 1 Water Conservation.

Stage 1 is an awareness-focused step that encourages voluntary, simple, everyday ways to reduce unnecessary water use while the City continues actively managing water resources. 

This decision follows Monroe’s Code of Ordinances which detail that the City shall enter Stage 1 Water Conservation once the water supply available to the City reaches 180 days of remaining.  

While our area has received some recent rainfall and wintry mix, overall drought conditions remain severe across much of the state, including Monroe.

What Stage 1 Voluntary Conservation Means

Stage 1 is designed as a voluntary measure focused on community awareness and shared responsibility.

At this stage:

• Conservation efforts are voluntary
• There are no mandatory restrictions
• There are no water rate increases

The goal is to reduce unnecessary water use while dry conditions persist.

“Stage 1 is about being proactive and thoughtful,” said City Manager Mark Watson. “Even though we have seen some recent precipitation, drought conditions remain severe. By encouraging voluntary conservation now and continuing to manage our water system carefully, we are taking responsible steps to protect reliable service for our community.”

Why the City is Taking this Step

Recent months have brought significantly less rainfall than normal across the region. National drought monitoring data shows that most of North Carolina is currently experiencing abnormally dry to severe drought conditions, with neighboring areas seeing similar impacts.

Even with recent precipitation, dry ground conditions and reduced inflows to lakes and reservoirs mean long-term water supplies remain under stress. With less water naturally replenishing these sources, it becomes more important for communities to use water wisely.

Monroe is taking proactive steps now to manage water resources responsibly and help ensure steady water service for City of Monroe Water customers.

Please note that Stage 1 applies only to City of Monroe Water Utility customers.

What the City of Monroe is Doing

In addition to encouraging voluntary conservation, the City of Monroe is actively managing water resources and planning ahead to ensure reliable drinking water for residents and businesses.

Current efforts include:

• Evaluating potential use of the City’s recently acquired aquifer-fed lake for water supply purposes and future system integration
• Reviewing additional operational and regional options should dry conditions continue
• Closely monitoring system performance, usage patterns, and weather conditions

The City has planned for situations like this and will continue coordinating across departments to manage water resources responsibly.

How You Can Help During Stage 1 Water Conservation

Even during winter months, small changes to daily water use can make a difference. Residents and businesses are encouraged to:

• Fix leaks and running toilets as soon as possible
• Keep showers brief
• Turn off faucets while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes
• Run dishwashers and laundry only with full loads
• Avoid washing driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor surfaces
• Limit vehicle washing at home

Outdoor watering should be limited to what is needed for plant survival only. If watering is necessary, early morning or evening hours are best.

Read more resources and tips at ReadyNC.gov

How the City Will Share Updates

The City will continue monitoring drought indicators and water system demand. If conditions change, updates will be shared through the City website on the Water Supply & Restriction Status page and news flashes, social media pages, and customer contact information.

Questions about Stage 1 voluntary water conservation may be directed to the City of Monroe Water Resources Department at 704-282-4601.