Metro drought restrictions kick in Friday

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Winter isn't over yet, but a dry winter and months of water-shy conditions mean the earliest-ever drought restrictions for Albuquerque and Bernalillo County.

Wednesday the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority's Board voted to put the city and county under a Drought Watch starting Friday.

Under a Drought Watch, also known as a Stage 1 water restriction, the water authority will double fines for wasting water. That means the worst offenders could pay fines as large as $4,000.

The water authority will also offer water conservation classes starting in April. Utility customers who attend will get a $20 credit on their water bill.

Also expect to see more public-service announcements urging city and county residents to save water wherever they can.

Katherine Yuhas, the water authority's conservation officer. says even these small steps can make a big difference.

"It could save as much as 2.5 billion gallons of water," Yuhas said. "That's 7 percent of our [annual] water usage."

If the drought worsens or not enough water is saved, the authority's board can approve stronger restrictions. Under a Drought Warning, or Stage 2 water restrictions, surcharges for excess use of water would be doubled, no watering would be allowed between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., and "Water by the Numbers"  becomes mandatory.

The Drought Watch is in effect until the end of September unless the board votes to repeal it.