NORTH KONA, Hawaii – Department of Water Supply has issued a Water Restriction Notice for the North Kona area, requiring consumers to reduce water use by 25% percent.

County officials say the restriction is necessary due to ongoing repairs to wells in the North Kona area.

The notice was issued on January 12, and further publicized today via a County alert. “Your cooperation is greatly appreciated in using water sparingly at this time,” the message reads.

The Department of Water Supply has listed some ways to conserve water to reach the 25% goal.

• Wash only full loads of laundry or dishes at a time.
• Check faucets and pipes for leaks.
• Serve drinking water only when requested.
• Keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator. Use drinking water wisely.
• Do not let water run unnecessarily. Please shut the water off when you wash or brush your teeth.
• When bathing or showering, use water only to wet and rinse off.
• Do not fill up the bathtub.
• Use a glass to rinse when brushing your teeth.
• Do not flush toilets unnecessarily.
• Stop lawn sprinkling.
• Stop car and boat washing.
• Stop dust control watering.

In addition, Water Supply says all agricultural users should keep water usage to a minimum. “Irrigate only at night from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.,” officials say. “This measure will reduce water loss due to evaporation, and minimize water system usage during peak demand.”

For more information, please contact the Department at (808) 322-0600 during normal business hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.