Residents of Embrun are being asked to continue conserving water as restrictions remain in place until the end of August while repairs to the community’s water tower are completed. (File photo)
Residents of Embrun will need to continue conserving water through the summer, as the Township of Russell has announced that water restrictions will remain in effect until the end of August.
According to the municipality, repairs to the community’s water tower are taking longer than originally anticipated and are more extensive than expected. As a result, the water distribution system is currently operating without the water tower and is relying solely on the reservoir for storage and supply.
Municipal officials are asking residents to reduce their water consumption wherever possible to help ensure an adequate supply for daily needs and emergency situations, including firefighting operations.
“Without the water tower, the system is operating on just the reservoir,” the Township stated. “It is important that everyone does their part to reduce water use to ensure there is enough supply for all residents and for any emergencies, including fires.”
The municipality is urging residents to use water only when absolutely necessary while the restrictions remain in place.
Under the current restrictions, outdoor water use continues to be regulated based on street address numbers. Residents with odd-numbered addresses may water their lawns on odd-numbered calendar dates, while residents with even-numbered addresses may water their lawns on even-numbered dates.
However, lawn watering is prohibited for all residents between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The Township has also prohibited the use of automatic sprinkler systems and pressure washing of driveways for the duration of the restrictions.
Municipal officials noted that the restrictions are particularly important during the evening hours because the water system does not receive water from the City of Ottawa between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. During that period, the community relies entirely on water stored in the reservoir.
The restrictions apply to all residents of Embrun who are connected to the Township of Russell’s municipal water distribution system, including those whose water source is supplied through the City of Ottawa.
The Township has not provided a specific completion date for the repairs but expects the restrictions to remain in place until the end of August. Residents are encouraged to continue following the conservation measures to help maintain a reliable water supply throughout the repair period.
