After Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina, it’s clear that clean water is vital. Many people are still struggling to find reliable water sources, prompting Wake County officials to emphasize this important issue. The annual Imagine a Day Without Water event, now in its 10th year, aims to educate the public about water's vital role in daily life and advocate for sustainable water management practices.
Shinica Thomas, chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners, emphasizes the necessity of managing water wisely, stating, "These disastrous events show us how important it is to manage our water wisely." In statements to the media, Thomas added, "That's why we're developing a 50-year One Water plan to secure our water supply while promoting equitable access to clean water." Participation in the nationwide Imagine a Day Without Water initiative on Thursday is one way for the community to understand the everyday importance of water, as stated by the Wake County.
Wake County's One Water Plan is a comprehensive 50-year strategy aimed at addressing all aspects of water management, including supply, treatment, stormwater management, and groundwater protection. With the county's population expected to grow by over 250,000 in the next decade, the plan focuses on equitable service for residents. "Collaboration and partnerships help increase community resilience and support long-term sustainability of our water resources," the county emphasizes, citing the Wake County Water Partnership as a crucial element. Currently, about 950,000 residents rely on Falls Lake and Jordan Lake, while many others depend on private wells and septic systems.
