UPDATE:
3/4/09
Effective today, June 10, 2009, the entire state of Georgia is officially out of the drought and to use "Non-Drought" Outdoor Water Rules.
Essentially, all outdoor water use is allowed on an odd/even daily basis with no time restrictions. The non-drought rules allow the use of ornamental ponds/fountains, pressure washing, carwashing, etc. Commercial exemptions still apply for other uses.
From the official EPD rules (CHAPTER 391-3-30 - OUTDOOR WATER USE) : Outdoor water use other than exempted activities shall occur only as follows:
(a) Odd-numbered addresses: outdoor water use is allowed on Tuesdays,Thursdays and Sundays.
(b) Even-numbered addresses: outdoor water use is allowed on Mondays,Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Detailed information will be available on the MALTA website later today - including rules for "new installation" - as more information is available from the Governor and the EPD Director.
We are hopeful that this easing of the water restrictions will allow your business to prosper, and that this will alleviate your customers' concerns regarding installing and maintaining landscapes.
While the outdoor water restrictions caused serious economic damage to the urban ag industry, the industry and the public showed tremendous restraint and an excellent conservation mindset once the severity of the drought was realized. We thank the Governor and EPD Director Carol Couch for considering our input regarding easing the restrictions, and recognizing both our part in the establishment of a culture of conservation and that this culture will continue now that the drought has eased and restrictions have been reduced.
As an industry, we will continue to lead the way in environmental stewardship through our words and actions and by continuing to educate our industry and the public of science-based best management practices to establish and maintain water-efficient sustainable landscapes. We will also continue the work started during the drought to advocate for our industry regarding legislation and regulation of water and other issues.
The green spaces created, enhanced and maintained by our industry provide environmental, lifestyle and economic benefits for all of Georgia's citizens. Thank you for your role in making this a reality.
Sincerely,
Mary Kay Woodworth
Executive Director, MALTA
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