As Hawai‘i Island experiences a severe drought in multiple regions, DWS will closely monitor its 23 public water systems.

Special focus will be placed on the South Kohala Water System that primarily uses stream or surface water that is more susceptible to drought conditions than water from underground aquifers which produce the remainder of the approximately 25 million gallons of safe drinking water the Department delivers daily to its customers.

If DWS’ pumping capabilities cannot sustain the water needs of all customers and the public served by
a respective water system, DWS will have to ask those customers to reduce their water use. Measures
could include a request to cut back on irrigation, undertake 10 percent voluntary conservation, or
comply with a mandatory 25 percent reduction notice so DWS can maintain an adequate supply of safe
drinking water for all customers.

Water customers can do their part by fixing common household water leaks, irrigating efficiently, and switching to low-flow toilets.

Other helpful water conservation tips can be found at the Department’s website, www.hawaiidws.org, by clicking on the “Conservation”

To reach the DWS, call (808) 961-8050 during normal business hours or (808) 961-8790 after-hours.