The Stafford County Board of Supervisors convened on May 15, 2024, to discuss critical updates regarding the county's water management, particularly the introduction of a new Drought Management Plan. This plan is essential as Stafford County currently lacks a formal drought management strategy, which has become increasingly necessary due to the region's vulnerability to drought conditions.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that Stafford County's water supply is primarily sourced from two reservoirs: Smith Lake and Lake Mooney, which rely heavily on rainfall and river flow. The county's water supply is generally robust, but fluctuations in weather patterns can lead to significant challenges, as evidenced by last year's drought conditions. The new Drought Management Plan was developed in response to a requirement from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) during the reissuance of the Lake Mooney withdrawal permit.

The proposed plan outlines a series of escalating restrictions based on water availability and drought conditions. Initially, the plan will encourage voluntary reductions in water use for both commercial and residential users. If conditions worsen, these measures could become mandatory, culminating in emergency restrictions that limit water use to essential needs only.

Key discussions during the meeting included the enforcement of these restrictions, with concerns raised about the county's capacity to monitor compliance effectively. Officials acknowledged the challenges of enforcing water use restrictions in a growing population and indicated that future implementation may involve automated meter readings to identify excessive water use.

The board also discussed the importance of public communication regarding drought conditions and water conservation measures. Suggestions included incorporating reminders about drought levels in utility bills to ensure all residents are informed.

The Drought Management Plan is set to be formally adopted following further discussions with the Utility Commission and a public hearing. This initiative represents a proactive step by Stafford County to manage its water resources more effectively and prepare for potential future drought conditions.