Published 4:27 pm Friday, August 14, 2026 VALDOSTA — On Friday, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) extended the statewide Drought Response Level 1 issued on April 27, following continued dry conditions and increasing concerns about water resources across Georgia. Lowndes County Utilities announced the EPD’s decision and issued a statement about it by email Friday afternoon After closely monitoring drought indicators for several months, EPD coordinated with public water systems, including Lowndes County Utilities, to assess current conditions and the status of the water supply before making this determination, the statement said. This declaration applies to customers served by Lowndes County Utilities and to those in the unincorporated areas of Lowndes County. “Our priority is to ensure that residents in Lowndes County, especially those in unincorporated areas served by Lowndes County Utilities, stay informed and prepared,” said Paige Dukes, Lowndes County manager. “While there are no additional restrictions at this time, we encourage everyone to be mindful of their water use and take simple steps to conserve as we continue to monitor dry conditions.” At this time, outdoor water use is still permitted and remains unchanged under Level 1 guidelines, the county said in a press release. Residents may continue outdoor watering between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. Local water systems must follow state requirements and cannot impose additional restrictions…
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