Program set to begin June 1 and will remain in effect through Sept. 30
BATTLE GROUND — During the peak of the summer season, from June through September, Battle Ground water utility customers use nearly 3 million gallons of water per day – more than twice the typical amount of water used during the rest of the year. 
The difference highlights the significant amount of water being used for outdoor applications, and the need to proactively manage the city’s water resources.
Beginning June 1, the city of Battle Ground is implementing a voluntary Odd/Even Watering (irrigation) Program for all residential, commercial and public customers. The program will remain in effect through Sept. 30:
- Water customers with addresses ending in an odd number may water/irrigate outdoors on Saturdays, Mondays & Wednesdays only
- Water customers with addresses ending in an even number may water/irrigate outdoors on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays only
- Friday is a non-watering day for everyone, allowing the water system to refill city reservoirs.
- Exceptions are granted for vegetable gardens, newly planted lawns, and potted or hanging plants. These may be watered as needed to prevent damage and protect your investment. Best practices to use the water efficiently is always encouraged.
“An odd/even water management program is simple in its application, can save a half-million gallons of water per day, and is essential to maintain safe levels of water in the city’s reservoir tanks,” said Public Works Director Scott Sawyer.
Water resources are not an unlimited supply; on days when temperatures soar, local water demand can easily exceed production. The city uses eight wells — the maximum allowed by state regulations — to draw water from the Troutdale and Sand & Gravel underground aquifers. The aquifers are a natural resource, used regionally for a growing population. Their storage capacity can vary from season to season and from year to year. Rainfall, even in the amounts we experience here in the great Pacific Northwest, does not immediately or completely recharge the aquifer.
Water production levels in the city of Battle Ground are at about 80 percent of capacity and continue to decline. To supplement the amount of water produced by the city’s wells, an intertie with Clark Public Utilities (CPU) was established in July of 2014. The intertie allows the city to purchase water directly from CPU to serve customer demand. The cost is factored into overall city water rates.
Water management is a growing concern throughout the state. While conservation efforts are important year-round, the impacts of rising summer temperatures and the resulting water demand, makes summertime water conservation efforts that much more important.
There are many ways to conserve water both in and outside your home or business. Participating in the Odd/Even Watering Program and using other simple conservation techniques can cut your summer water usage appreciably and every little bit helps, both in your pocketbook and in your community. The city’s Water Conservation website page at www.cityofbg.org/conserve-water contains links to some of the best conservation resources and tips.
Information provided by city of Battle Ground.
