Martinsville asks residents to conserve water during extreme drought

Martinsville Water Resources is asking customers to voluntarily conserve water as the region faces extreme drought conditions identified by the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force.

The city’s July 14 notice says Beaver Creek Reservoir is being closely monitored and continues to support the community’s water supply. The request is voluntary; the notice does not announce mandatory restrictions, but it says small changes in daily routines can help protect supplies during dry weather.

Residents can start with practical steps inside the home: repair dripping faucets and toilet leaks, turn off the tap while brushing, take shorter showers and run full loads of laundry. Outdoors, the city recommends watering during cooler hours, avoiding overwatering, using a broom instead of a hose on sidewalks and driveways, and using a shut-off nozzle if a vehicle must be washed at home.

The city says conservation helps maintain water for drinking, sanitation, recreation and fire protection. Residents should watch Martinsville Water Resources for any later change in conditions or guidance.

Source: Reporting based on the City of Martinsville Water Resources notice posted July 14, 2026, voluntary water conservation guidance. The city notice describes the request as voluntary and says reservoir levels are being monitored.