Richmond, VA —  Along with our regional partners (Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico and Powhatan counties) and as part of the James River Regional Flow Management Plan, the City of Richmond is closely monitoring the river levels. The recent dry weather and lack of significant rainfall in western Virginia will likely lead to voluntary water conservation in the metro Richmond area. The Richmond region is supplied water by the James River basin, the largest watershed in the state. Water levels locally are affected when there are dry conditions and lack of rainfall within the drainage basin.  

In the event river levels and flows in the James don’t improve, the region will reach the stage for conservation measures on Wednesday, July 1. At that time an advisory will be issued asking all residents in the City of Richmond and surrounding counties to voluntarily reduce water usage.  

Though we are specifically talking about low river levels and flows, water conservation should be an everyday practice for all residents and businesses. Conserving water is an important tool in reducing water demand. Water conservation tips can be found here: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking-water/office-of-drinking-water/water-conservation-tips/.