VINELAND, NJ—In response to a severe heat wave and significantly low rainfall over the past 60 days, the City of Vineland Water Utility is imposing mandatory water use restrictions. This measure follows dangerously low water volumes being pumped, unable to meet the high demand from residents and commercial entities. The utility is operating under strained conditions despite some recent improvements.
Vineland Municipal Utilities Director John Lillie expressed urgent concerns regarding the current water supply challenges. “Lower than normal water pressure is already evident, and there’s a real threat of demand outstripping our pumping capacity, potentially leading to water shortages,” Lillie stated. He emphasized that water conservation by the community is crucial to prevent critical impacts, such as jeopardizing fire safety due to insufficient water supply during emergencies.
The restrictions, as mandated by Vineland Municipal Code Chapter 687 – Part 4-Article 687-149, are now in effect until further notice. The utility seeks cooperation from all sectors and apologizes for any inconvenience caused by these measures. “Our goal is to ensure sustainability and safety in our water distribution amidst these challenging times,” added Lillie.
Customers are expected to adhere to strict guidelines regarding outdoor water usage, regardless of the water source. Specific rules have been set for activities such as car washing and lawn watering. For instance, properties with even-numbered addresses can water their lawns or wash cars only on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while those with odd numbers may do so on Thursdays and Sundays. Watering times are confined to early mornings and late afternoons, with each session limited to certain durations to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
These temporary restrictions are crucial for maintaining adequate water supply and public safety until normal pumping capacity is restored. Compliance with these measures is essential for the well-being of the Vineland community during this period of water scarcity.