The request comes after the Roanoke Drought Evaluation Region, which includes the City of Danville, reached drought emergency status. State officials report that the region has received only 57 percent of its normal rainfall for this time of year, with groundwater, streamflows, and reservoir levels all well below normal. The City emphasizes that Danville Utilities continues to provide safe, reliable drinking water throughout its service area. There will be no interruption to water service or water quality as a result of these voluntary conservation measures. The City is also taking steps to conserve water. As part of those efforts, the JTI Fountain at Main Street Plaza will be temporarily shut down. Although the fountain recirculates water, it does not serve a recreational purpose, and suspending its operation reflects the City's commitment to conserving water whenever practical. At Riverfront Park, the spray ground, which also recirculates water, will remain open. However, the decorative fountain will be temporarily shut down. The City's three splash pads — Ballou Park, Third Avenue Park and Doyle Thomas Park — will also remain open. They recirculate water and operate only when activated by users. The splash pads and Riverfront Park spray ground provide an important recreational amenity for residents and visitors, particularly during the summer months. In addition, the Parks and Recreation Department will reduce irrigation run times by 25 percent and irrigate parks and athletic fields on a rotational schedule to further conserve water. "Residents should know there is no interruption to water service, and the quality of our drinking water remains excellent," said Jason Grey, director of Danville Utilities. "These voluntary conservation measures are a proactive step to help preserve our water resources while the region continues to experience exceptionally dry conditions. If everyone makes a few small changes, together we can make a meaningful difference." Outdoor water conservation Customers are encouraged to reduce outdoor water use by:

  • Watering lawns and landscapes only before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m., when evaporation rates are lowest.
  • Reducing lawn watering whenever possible.
  • Using a blower or broom instead of a garden hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
  • Washing vehicles less frequently.
  • Using a watering can or bucket instead of a hose for plants and gardens.
  • Turning off aesthetic or ornamental fountains and other decorative water features. Indoor water conservation Customers are also encouraged to reduce indoor water use by:
  • Identifying and repairing visible leaks.
  • Turning off the water while brushing teeth, shaving, or performing similar tasks.
  • Taking shorter showers and using less water when bathing.
  • Running clothes washers and dishwashers only when they are full. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality reports that the Commonwealth is experiencing one of its driest water years on record. Rainfall statewide is nearly eight inches below normal on average, while groundwater levels, streamflows, and reservoir levels throughout the region continue to decline. The City will continue to monitor conditions in coordination with state and regional partners. Additional conservation measures will be considered if drought conditions worsen.