Although the Level 4 drought is over, residents need to know that the watering restrictions that were set by the state are still in place.

Janet Ward, spokesperson for the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management, said they would have to meet stream flow, groundwater levels, reservoir levels and rainfall for four consecutive months before by state law they could loosen the restrictions.

“With us heading into summer, it’s very doubtful that we will hit any of those metrics for four consecutive months,” said Ms. Ward.

The department handles water service for unincorporated south Fulton County and some incorporate cities such as Fairburn, East Point, College Park, Hapeville and Union City.

According to the Web site, watering is restricted to one hour between midnight and 10 a.m.; three days a week depending on address. Odd-numbered addresses water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays; even-numbered addresses on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. The state has loosened watering restrictions to allow for drip irrigation and soaker hoses in Atlanta.

The department is urging customers to try and conserve whenever possible. Some conservations methods include: shaving in the sink, keeping a bucket in the shower to collect water to use on outdoor plants, not letting the water run while brushing teeth, switching to a new water-conserving toilet, hand-washing dishes, and switching to a more efficient front-loading washing machine.

The city of Atlanta along with fellow south metro counties Clayton, Fayette and Henry is part of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District participating in the toilet rebate program. Residents must have an individual account and be up to date on their billing payments to be eligible. There are two rebates: one for $50 for a 1.6 gallons per flush or less toilet, and one for $100 for a 1.28 gallons per flush or less toilet.

For more information call (404) 463-8645, visit www.northgeorgiawater.com or www.atlantawatershed.org.