As drought persists, Orange County leaders keep watchful eye on conditions, water supply

ORANGE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Much of Orange County remains in exceptional drought, the highest drought category, according to a new map released Thursday.

People from across the county continue to see the effects of prolonged dry conditions, even after recent rainfall.

Jamie Clarke said the impact is difficult to ignore.

"It's been miserably hot. And miserably dry," Clarke said.

The Eno River is one of Orange County's water sources. The county relies on a combination of surface water and groundwater wells, and some drought-related impacts remain visible.

"We have trees that are dropping leaves and looking really bad," Clarke said. "Plus, I've never in North Carolina worried about fire danger before, and now I do because of that."

Chapel Hill and Carrboro receive much of their water from University Lake, Cane Creek Reservoir and the Quarry Reservoir.

According to OWASA, its reservoirs are about 73% full, which is 3% above the level that would trigger the utility's Water Shortage Response Plan.

"We're not in drought restrictions yet," Mary Tiger said. "Our water supply is doing OK. But of course we know the whole region is an exceptional drought conditions. So we're definitely keeping an eye on things."

The drought also has affected local agriculture. At Eno River Farm, assistant general manager Tree Barber said the dry weather has created challenges for crops and workers.

"It has been rough for everybody," Barber said. "It cut our strawberry season significantly shorter ... it's been tough employee wise, just being outside and everything as well."

Barber said the dry conditions have reduced the farm's blackberry crop and prevented it from planting its usual fields of zinnias and sunflowers. The drought also has prompted conservation efforts at home.

"I have four roommates," Barber said. "We're going to try to combine our laundry loads ... everybody is just trying to use as little as they possibly can."

About 40% of Orange County residents receive their water from private wells. Brian Olson said he has not experienced problems with his water supply.

"There's been good supply of it," he said. "It's clean ... tastes good. We have an abundance of it."

As drought conditions continue, officials are encouraging residents to conserve water.

SEE ALSO | Raleigh leaders cite 2007-09 drought to push for tougher restrictions

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