What you need to know about the water restrictions in Grenada

Grenada is battling a harsh dry season in 2024 with water usage restrictions in effect as of May 12.  

Since the announcement, the National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) has been educating Grenadians with photos of low water levels at dams and maps showing how dire the situation is, especially to the south of the island.  

Here’s what you need to know about the water restrictions in Grenada and how the dry season is affecting the tri-island State. 

1. According to the restrictions, there is to be no irrigation or watering of gardens, lawns and ground 

2. No filling of swimming pools and ponds 

3. No washing of roadways, pavements, paths, garages, outrooms or vehicles using hoses  

4. No use for any purpose that, in the opinion of the Authority, requires a considerable or excessive quantity of water 

5. Under the Water Services Regulations SRO 41 of 1993, sub-section 9 (4): A person who contravenes the regulation is guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $500 and in default imprisonment for one month 

6. The Les Avocat Dam is in a dire state as though it’s designed to supply 300,000 gallons, it’s currently only able to distribute 180,000 gallons. This shortfall is impacting communities like Minorca, Windsor Forest, Apsley, Perdmontemps, Marian, St Paul’s, Richmond Hill, Morne Jaloux, La Borie, Hope Vale, and Creighton. 
 

7. Sulare Dam, which is the backbone of the Vendomme Water Treatment Plant, together with the Mon Repos Dam, provides essential water to the Vendomme Water Treatment Plant, yielding an average of 250,000 gallons per day. However, due to the impact of the dry season, NAWASA’s current production is reduced to 190,000 gallons. Vendomme serves the communities of Black Forest, Constantine, Beaulieu, Mt Gay, River Road, Mt Moritz, Belle Vue, Snug Corner, Boca, and Melrose. 

8. The Annandale Dam typically produces 2.3 million gallons of water daily. Currently, production is only at 1.2 million, with a temporary boost of 500,000 gallons from Grand Etang Lake. From May 12 all pumping from Grand Etang will halt, reducing supply by 500,000 gallons 

9. The Petite Etang Water System is served by two dams. Both are severely challenged. Despite having the capacity to distribute an average of 270,000 gallons, the current distribution stands at just 150,000 gallons. 
This situation directly impacts the communities it serves, including Petite Etang, Syracuse, Corinth, Vincennes, Windsor Forest, Laura Land, Perdmontemps, Providence, Champfleur, and Child Island. 

10. NAWASA said it is making significant strides in bolstering Grenada’s water infrastructure with the arrival of crucial materials for constructing storage tanks across the island. Four massive 500 gallon hurricane proof water storage tanks will soon be installed at strategic locations.