City asking residents to conserve water due to exceptionally dry conditions

Due to prolonged dry weather and below-average rainfall, Saint John Water is experiencing increased pressure on municipal water sources. To ensure the continued availability of safe drinking water and maintain essential services, Saint John Water and City departments are implementing immediate water conservation measures.

Effective immediately, the City will cease all non-essential water use, including:

• Operation of splash pads
• Routine washing of municipal vehicles and equipment
• Non-critical hydrant flushing

These steps are being taken to prioritize water for critical infrastructure, fire protection, and residential use.

What residents can do to help:

We are asking all residents to voluntarily reduce their water usage to help protect our shared water supply. Please do what you can to take the following actions:

Avoid:

• Watering lawns, gardens, or outdoor plants
• Washing vehicles at home
• Filling swimming pools, hot tubs, or ornamental fountains
• Power-washing driveways, decks, or buildings

Practice:

• Shorter showers and turning off taps when brushing teeth or shaving
• Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads
• Promptly fixing any leaks in plumbing or irrigation systems
• Use rain barrels or recycled water for outdoor needs (if necessary)

In addition to the City’s efforts, many of Saint John’s industrial water users have already taken significant steps to reduce their water consumption.

Water conservation is a shared responsibility, and the actions we take today will have a direct impact on our community’s ability to maintain essential services. These measures are critical to ensuring that we have adequate water pressure and supply available for emergency services such as firefighting and healthcare.

These measures also help to protect the long-term sustainability of our municipal water system, which is especially vulnerable during extended dry periods. By conserving water now, we can reduce the risk of more severe, mandatory restrictions in the future and safeguard this vital resource for everyone in Saint John.

Saint John Water will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates as needed.

Here to help – For inquiries related to municipal services, contact the City of Saint John Customer Service Centre at (506) 658-4455, email service@saintjohn.ca or visit us in person on the Ground Floor of City Hall, 15 Market Square, Monday to Friday (excluding holidays), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Source City of Saint John