THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Friday, July 1, 1994                   TAG: 9407010395
SECTION: LOCAL                    PAGE: B3   EDITION: FINAL 
SOURCE: STAFF REPORT 
DATELINE: CHESAPEAKE                         LENGTH: Short :   31 lines

WATER RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT FOR RESIDENTS OF CHESAPEAKE

Mandatory water restrictions went into effect today, barring such activities as watering lawns, filling pools, and washing cars or dousing shrubs with anything larger than a 3-gallon bucket.

City officials took the action due to high levels of chloride and sodium in the water from the Northwest River Treatment Plant - Chesapeake's primary water source. In addition, lower-than-average rainfall combined with the extremely hot weather had led to an increased demand for the available water.

While the high chloride and sodium levels give the water an unpleasant, brackish taste, it does not pose a health risk. Residents on severely restricted sodium diets, however, are advised to avoid drinking city water.

Chesapeake officials said the restrictions would be removed when there is a significant change in the weather pattern and the chloride level returns to normal.

Residents who want more information may call the Public Utilities Department at 547-6401. Chesapeake also has a Water Quality Hotline (547-6360) that provides daily updates on the chloride and sodium levels in the water from the Northwest River distribution system. by CNB