Siler City Imposes Stiff Water Fines

First-time offenders could be charged with a misdemeanor that carries up to a $500 fine. A second offense would bring a civil injunction, and subsequent violations would lead to water service being shut off.

"It will probably cost a little more, but in the long run it will be worth it because we've got to conserve water," said restaurant owner Lee Coblen.

Banning outdoor watering happens more often than not in Siler City. It is so common, all eight operational car washes have back up wells.

The town's Rocky River Reservoir is down 9 feet. The water restrictions kick in automatically if the levels get that low.

"I think it's telling our citizens that we are serious," said Siler City manager Joel Brower. "We are reading their meters every Monday and we are making sure that they [businesses] reduce."

Some businesses are trucking in water to help supplement their needs.

The town manager hopes the restrictions will stretch a 90-day water supply another 30 to 40 days.

"You just tighten the belt and deal with it," said resident Bud Stovall.

With the dry conditioners affecting so many areas, state agriculture commissioner Steve Troxler is expected to make an announcement Tuesday concerning hay funding.

Because of the drought, farmers across the state face an estimated hay shortfall of up to 800,000 round bales. Gov. Mike Easley has asked for federal disaster aid for 85 counties.