NBU NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 4, 2006
Contact: Gretchen Reuwer, NBU Communications Manager, (830) 629-8486

Hours allowed for sprinkler use to change

NEW BRAUNFELS—Changes to New Braunfels’ year-round conservation measures will soon be taking effect, and NBU water customers need to make note of a change in the time that sprinkler use is allowed for landscape watering.

Beginning Monday, May 8, NBU water customers are not permitted to use a sprinkler for landscape watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on any day. This is a change from the previous ordinance which prohibited the use of a sprinkler from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The change was a result of an Edwards Aquifer Authority mandate that requires Edwards Aquifer permit holders, such as NBU, to include language prohibiting sprinkler use between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. in their conservation ordinances.

Also beginning Monday, charity car washes may only be held at commercial car wash facilities, golf courses are not allowed to use potable water to irrigate their fairways or greens, and the revised Drought Management Plan will become effective. The Drought Management Plan will dictate water use if the J-17 well or Comal Spring flow reaches the trigger levels for additional restrictions.

The complete Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan, along with the watering restriction stage currently in effect for NBU customers, is available here. Customers may also call (830) 608-8925 for a 24-hour information line that provides current watering information. A brochure will also be included in an upcoming bill that outlines watering restrictions in the event that Stage I, II or III of the Drought Management Plan goes into effect. Customers will additional questions about the Water Conservation and Drought Management Plan should call (830) 629-8400.