Cascade Water Alliance announced today that it is joining Seattle Public Utilities, Tacoma Water and the City of Everett in asking residents and businesses for voluntary curtailment of their use of water by 10 percent of current projected use due to continuing drought conditions.

Cascade and its members, Bellevue, Kirkland, Issaquah, Redmond, Tukwila and the Sammamish Plateau and Skyway Water and Sewer Districts, get their drinking water from the Seattle water supply.  Historic low river levels, combined with record-setting hot and dry weather have significantly increased the demand for water.  These reductions in water use will help the region further maximize its water supply for people and fish.

“We are asking residents and businesses to cut their water use by at least 10 percent,” said Chuck Clarke, Cascade CEO.  Cascade recommends the following:

•    Let the lawn go dormant

•    Limit plant watering to twice a week

•    Water plants before 8 am or after 7 pm

•    Take shorter showers

•    Turn off the water when brushing your teeth

•    Wash only full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.

•    Fix leaking faucets and toilets

•    Take your car to a commercial car wash that recycles water

•    Turn off all non-recirculating water features

•    Postpone new plantings until fall.

“This is the time for all neighbors, businesses and communities to take these important actions today to save water for people and fish as we go into the end of summer and early fall,” urges Clarke. “Residents should contact their respective utility for specific information in your community.”

For more information about Cascade’s water efficiency programs, tips and free water saving items, visit www.cascadewater.org.