Pocono News Section

Water Conservation Advisory in Wyoming County

Water Conservation Advisory in Wyoming County - Monday, February 4, 2008 at 5:24PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Monday, Feb 4, 2008 @05:24pm EST
LACEYVILLE, WYOMING COUNTY - People who live in part of Wyoming County are being urged to cut back on their water usage this week. Starting Tuesday, the borough of Laceyville's water pump will be shut off, meaning a critical advisory is in place.

Nearly 500 people who live in Laceyville are being told not to use excessive water. That means no dishwashers or washing machines, but worst of all, no showers.

"We're used to taking showers everyday and then with this water being like it is, it's just terrible," Laceyville resident Laura Miller said.

For the last six weeks, homeowners have been asked to temporarily cut back on water usage because of problems with the borough's water pump. This week, that pump will be taken out and repair work will be done.

"We don't have any family that lives really close, so that means hauling your clothes away, so its a big pain," Laceyville resident Richard Miller said.

The water restrictions aren't just taking their toll on homeowners, but also businesses. Places like the Wiser Choice Restaurant are being allowed to stay open, but they have to use paper plates and cups.

Borough leaders hope the emergency repairs will only last three days. They say if people don't adhere to the latest warning, the water may run out and taps could go dry.

"I know that we're dangerously low. We just do not have the volume of water to keep up with the demand and the level in the reservoir is very low," borough councilman Phillip Brewer said.

Debbi Kunkle works at a business along Main Street. She says the water worries are on everyone's mind.

"Everybody's just hoping this will put an end to it, that what they do this week will fix the problem and there won't have to be a new well drilled," Kunkle said.

During the repairs, borough leaders say they will rely on a back-up well. If the repairs take longer than expected, water tankers will be set-up.