The Town of Friday Harbor is requesting that its residents and businesses curtail their water usage over the next several weeks as the weather reports predict continued hot weather ahead.

The town’s water comes from Trout Lake on the western portion of the island and high usage has been noted during this most recent stretch of heat.

“We are not yet in a critical situation, but with continued demand, we do not want to get to a position where rationing would become necessary,” said Friday Harbor Mayor Farhad Ghatan. “If everyone conserves, we will not face an emergency in the future. It is also important for us to maintain full reservoirs in case a firefighting need arises.”

Specifically, the town is requesting that you take shorter showers, not wash your car, turn off your automatic timed sprinkler systems, and restrict hand watering yards and gardens, especially during the hottest part of the day. The Water Treatment Plant on Wold Road is working overtime to maintain water levels in the two main tanks in town and we are seeking voluntary cooperation to lessen the incredible demands being seen at this time. Restaurants are one of the higher use customers for the utility and

their assistance would be greatly appreciated.

For additional information please contact Town Administrator Duncan Wilson at duncanw@fridayharbor.org.