Announcements

Information Regarding Drought Conditions for Calhoun Utilities

Posted:

(Updated April 27th, 2026)

After months of closely monitoring drought conditions across the State of Georgia, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has declared a Level 1 drought response for all public water systems utilizing surface water and/or groundwater. The GA EPD determines whether specific environmental conditions warrant a drought response declaration based on the severity of drought conditions and the impacts to water supply. This declaration is a proactive measure in response to ongoing dry conditions and aims to ensure that Georgia’s water resources remain reliable and sustainable.

In response to the declaration and current drought conditions, Calhoun Utilities encourages all residents to reduce water usage wherever possible. Small adjustments in daily routines, such as fixing leaks, running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, and limiting outdoor watering, can make a significant difference in conserving water.

Outdoor water use guidelines remain unchanged under a Drought Response Level 1, and watering between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. is still permitted based on the Georgia Water Stewardship Act of 2010.

While there aren’t any new restrictions under a Level 1 Drought Response, the following are acceptable practices and allowed daily at any time of day:

  • Irrigation of personal food gardens may be done at any time of day.
  • Irrigation of new and replanted plants, seed, or turf may be done at any time of day for 30 days after installation.
  • Drip irrigation or irrigation using soaker hoses may be done at any time of day.
  • Hand watering with a hose with an automatic cutoff or a handheld container may be done at any time of day.
  • Irrigation of horticultural crops held for sale, resale, or installation.
  • Irrigation of athletic fields, golf courses, or public turf grass recreational areas.
  • Installation, maintenance, or calibration of irrigation systems.
  • Hydroseeding.

Thank you for your support and commitment to responsible water use.

If you have any questions or wish to learn more about water conservation tips, please visit the Georgia EPD website at the following links:

https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/drought-management

https://epd.georgia.gov/watershed-protection-branch/water-conservation

PDF Information Regarding Drought Conditions for Calhoun Utilities (PDF)