With the lack of rain and the summer heat beating down the area, the Edwards Aquifer Authority is declaring Stage 3 pumping restrictions. It's only the second time that the EAA has declared Stage 3 for users of the San Antonio pool of the Edward Aquifer. The first time was last summer, from August 15th to September 15th.
This year, the EAA is calling for Stage 3 two weeks earlier than last year.
EAA spokesperson Terri Herbold explains, "Stage 3 means the permit holders in Bexar and Medina and parts of surrounding counties need to reduce their pumping by 35 percent."
But San Antonio Water System Spokesperson Ann Hayden says they will not be going to Stage 3 because SAWS has banked water over the year and has alternative water sources, other than the Edwards Aquifer.
However, SAWS reminds its water customers that despite its current ability to avoid tougher water restrictions, water conservation should always should be practiced.
