Alert - 80 percent of reservoir capacity.
At this phase, the Department closely monitors reservoir capacities and implements its resource management plan. The water capacity is brought to the attention of the citizens through press releases.
Advisory - 70 percent of reservoir capacity.
The Department continues to follow its water resource management plan and requests voluntary conservation measures on the part of the citizens (usually outdoor water use).
Emergency Phase I - 60 percent of reservoir capacity.
The Department requests mandatory use restrictions (typically a ban on outdoor water use - a 10% reduction).
Emergency Phase II - 40 percent of reservoir capacity.
The Department requests a mandatory 10 percent reduction in indoor water consumption. All outdoor water use is banned. A public relations campaign is initiated to identify methods to accomplish the required reductions (total use reduction 20%). Enforcement actions will need to be taken.
Emergency Phase III - 30 percent of reservoir capacity.
The Department requests a mandatory 20 percent (10 percent 10 percent) reduction in indoor water consumption. Outdoor use is still banned. Overall minimum 30% use reduction is required. A public relations campaign is initiated to identify methods to accomplish the required reductions. Additional mandatory percent reductions in indoor water use may be required by the Department based upon continued reductions in reservoir levels. Enforcement actions will need to be taken.