Water restrictions start Jun 11 due to local drought warning Published June 7, 2012 By Senior Airman Adawn Kelsey 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- According to the city of Wichita Falls, it is expected the combined lake water levels in the local area will drop to 50 percent on or about June 11. Due to the reduced water levels, the city will move from a Stage 1 Drought Watch to a Stage 2 Drought Warning. Sheppard, along with the local community, will be initiating watering restrictions Jun 11 to help the city conserve water. A water rationing zone map distributed by the city has Sheppard in the Monday watering zone. Base residents will only be allowed to water before 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m. on Mondays. Senior leadership has made the proactive decision to water the following areas: the median of D and E Avenue, all athletic fields, the parade grounds, youth and CDC facilities, Bldg 400, Bldg 2322, and all three base gates. Areas that have recently been a construction site will be also be allowed to water daily for 30-45 days to establish new turf and prevent soil erosion. In the event that Drought Emergency Stage 3 is reached (which could occur on or about August 6 of this year) all outdoor watering will cease. In addition to watering, the following are restrictions that will be put in to place when Stage 2 Drought Warning takes place: - All irrigation, residential and commercial, will be reduced to once a week, Monday through Friday, based on the water rationing zone map - No washing of vehicles in drive ways; only use a commercial car wash, dealership, automotive shop or detail shop - Fundraising car washes are prohibited - Driveways, patios and sidewalks cannot be washed unless an immediate health or safety risk is present Year round rules and restrictions are still in place and include: - Absolutely no spray/sprinkler watering from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. - Soaker hoses, drip irrigation and bubblers can be used anytime - Hand watering can be done anytime but the hose must have an attachment with a shutoff nozzle For complete water conservation tips, watering techniques, water restrictions and details about Stages 1-4 drought plans for the base populace please call (940) 676-2158. For city information, please visit wichitafallstx.gov or call (940) 761-7401.