Durham says Teer Quarry helping conserve water, but drought concerns remain
One week after Durham began pumping water from Teer Quarry into its treatment system, city officials say the project is helping preserve the community's primary water supply as drought conditions persist.
According to Durham officials, Teer Quarry has reduced demand on Lake Michie and Little River Reservoir by approximately 3 million to 4 million gallons per day since coming online last week. The water is being pumped directly into the city's treatment system and used to meet daily demand, reducing the amount that must be drawn from Durham's two main reservoirs.
Officials said that is exactly the role the quarry was designed to play during periods of water stress. While residents may not see reservoir levels rise as a result, the project is helping extend the life of Durham's primary water supply while the city waits for more significant rainfall.
Recent rounds of rain have provided some relief, but Durham leaders say conditions have not improved enough to change the city's overall water outlook. The rainfall has helped improve soil moisture and reduce landscape watering demand, but reservoir levels remain well below full capacity.
City officials also noted that long-range forecasts continue to paint a concerning picture. The National Weather Service and NOAA's Climate Prediction Center are forecasting drought conditions to persist through the fall.
As the drought continues, Durham officials say conservation efforts remain important even as Teer Quarry helps reduce pressure on the city's reservoir system.
