The Western Virginia Water Authority is implementing voluntary water conservation action steps throughout the service area (City of Roanoke, the Counties of Roanoke, Franklin and Botetourt, and the Towns of Boones Mill and Vinton) as outlined in the Authority's established Drought Contingency Plan. All commercial and residential customers are being asked to voluntarily reduce their indoor and outdoor water use.

Since October 2025, the Roanoke area has received 40-60% less rainfall than normal. The Carvins Cove Reservoir level has triggered Stage 1 Voluntary Conservation measures for our area. To help our reservoirs continue to serve their intended purpose of sustaining water supply through dry conditions, the Western Virginia Water Authority is asking customers to voluntarily reduce their water usage.  Stage 1 of the Drought Contingency Plan is a proactive measure designed to help preserve the region's water supply while encouraging simple, voluntary conservation practices throughout the community.

Many residents in the valley are already practicing water wise tips on a daily basis. Here's how you can do this too:

🌿Limit outdoor watering to before 10am and after 7pm when evaporation rates are the lowest
🧹Sweep instead of hose
⛲Turn off ornamental fountains
🔧Identify and repair leaks
🦷Turn off the tap while brushing teeth, washing your hands and shaving
🚿Reduce shower time and take baths with less water in the tub
👕Only run full loads of laundry and run the dishwasher only when full

For a list of water wise tips, information about voluntary conservation or to access the drought contingency plan, visit www.westernvawater.org/waterwise