Lacey updates Water Shortage Response Plan in case of unexpected water shortage

The Lacey Water Shortage Response Plan (WSRP) for 2023 has been updated to reflect the current operating system of the city.

Lacey Water Resources Specialist Charlene McHendry briefed the Utilities Committee on the updates during its meeting on Monday, June 5.

“The WSRP establishes procedures intended for use during unexpected periods of water shortage,” explained McHendry.

McHendry said the plan involves four stages of phased response. If timing and conditions allow, the stages would be implemented progressively. However, McHendry clarified that “conditions may warrant immediate implementation of an advanced stage without first moving through initial stages.”

The stages are characterized as follows:

• Stage 1: Advisory Stage – Internal evaluation of conditions and coordination are initiated to determine the likelihood of shortage and facilitate next steps. The public is reminded that the WSRP is in place and seasonal or other conditions may warrant its implementation. The public is encouraged to use water wisely, conservation messaging is increased and targeted toward large discretionary users.
• Stage 2: Internal Action Stage – If supply conditions worsen, the City will implement demand and supply-side actions.
• Stage 3: Mandatory Stage – If the internal action stage does not result in needed demand reduction or if conditions worsen, the City will implement more aggressive supply-side actions and will limit or prohibit certain uses of water by customers. This stage may involve an enforcement component with fines for non-compliance.
• Stage 4: Emergency Stage– This stage is implemented when supply conditions worsen and/or previous demand-reduction actions are not sufficient. Emergency curtailment addresses the most severe need for demand reduction and includes emergency restrictions.

The WSRP is a tool and guide for the City of Lacey in the event of a weather-related water shortage, natural or human-caused disaster, or other water system operating emergency.