STATE OF EMERGENCY CONSERVATION MANDATE
This Public Law states that GWA water may not be used for the washing of motor vehicles, windows, streets, sidewalks or buildings, or for the irrigation or watering of ornamental plants, shrubs, flowers, lawns and golf courses.
Please see below for answers to frequently asked questions regarding this order, or contact us at customer care so that we can assist you during this hardship and help you avoid costly fines and/or disconnection to your service.
Emergency Island Water Declaration FAQ
Why was a State of Emergency declared?
Due to either damage or lack of power to water wells, there was a sharp drop in our island’s water production. This led to the reservoirs becoming so low that water could not be delivered to homes islandwide. In the days after the typhoon, not enough water was able to be produced to meet the demand for island residents.
The emergency declaration to enforce this Public Law is intended to limit excessive water usage to allow the reservoirs to adequately fill to provide water to all GWA customers.
Is GWA going to enforce this water conservation mandate on its customers?
Public Law requires that we do. Any cases reported to GWA are required to be investigated. However, GWA’s number one priority is islandwide water restoration, so it is our hope all members of the public (both business and residential) comply with the law to avoid taking manpower and resources away from the restoration efforts.
Will GWA go door-to-door to enforce this mandate?
No. No GWA employees have been assigned to visit homes or businesses in order to ensure compliance with the law. GWA would like to utilize all available manpower and resources toward the restorations and keeping our water safe, not investigations. Please help the community’s water recovery effort through conservative use of our island water.
What happens if I am reported or cited?
If you are reported and receive a citation, our Compliance Division and Executive Management will review your case fairly and determine an appropriate response by GWA to comply with the Public Law.
I have a need that requires excessive water use — what do I do?
Contact GWA customer service prior to action, so we can advise and/or assist you.
What about using water for other things, like laundry and cleaning?
We are asking the public to use your best judgment to limit your water usage to essential needs only. Because we are all connected to water system restoration, please keep in mind that how you use your water could affect someone else getting theirs.
We are asking customers to use only what you need — not all you can get.
How long will this Executive Order be in effect?
The Order length will be up to the discretion of the Governor. We will assist in notifying the public when the conservation mandate is no longer in effect.
For additional questions, contact our Customer Service line at 671-647-7800. Find the latest Post-Mawar updates at guamwaterworks.org/mawarupdates.