GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Despite recent rainfall offering some relief, the City of Goldsboro says it is not enough to lift ongoing voluntary water conservation measures prompted by low river levels and continued drought conditions.
City officials first implemented the voluntary conservation request on April 20 and are urging all residents and businesses to continue reducing water usage until further notice.
According to the city, conservation efforts are typically triggered when the Neuse River reaches 51.5 feet mean sea level (MSL) for seven consecutive days at the city’s intake structure. Current levels remain at 51.8 feet MSL—still a concern given the broader drought conditions impacting the region.
Officials note that mandatory conservation measures would be enacted if river levels fall to or below 50 feet MSL for three consecutive days. In this case, the city is taking a proactive approach by maintaining voluntary conservation ahead of those thresholds.
Residents are encouraged to adopt simple, water-saving habits in their daily routines. Suggested measures include taking shorter showers, turning off water while brushing teeth or shaving, and only running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads. The city also recommends installing water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads and modifying toilet tanks to reduce water per flush.
Local ordinances outline both voluntary and mandatory conservation stages, but city leaders stress that community cooperation now could help avoid stricter restrictions later.
With drought conditions persisting, officials say every small effort can make a difference in preserving the area’s water supply.
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