As of April 14, 2026, Macon County and parts of 30 North Carolina counties are experiencing Extreme Drought (D3) conditions.
As a result, and in accordance with state law, the Town of Franklin is asking citizens to voluntarily restrict the amount of water being used effective April 22. Due to the lack of rain, water levels in Cartoogechaye Creek (not pictured above) at the inflow to the water treatment plant are below normal and this has triggered a Stage 1 voluntary water restriction.
According to Session Law 2008-143, each local government and large community water system must report weekly water use if they are in a county that contains an area of Extreme or Exceptional drought and then implement conservation efforts within their Water Shortage Response Plan (WSRP).
In accordance with the Town of Franklin’s WSRP, a stage 1 voluntary water restriction means that all water users are asked to reduce their normal water use by 5 percent.
Examples of ways to voluntarily restrict water use can include eliminating of washing vehicles, waiting to wash clothes until you have a full load, checking for leaks or toilets that may be running or use of dishwashers, limiting watering or irrigating outdoor landscapes.
The Town is asking for citizen cooperation by limiting the use of water, when possible, until there is enough precipitation to raise water levels and reduce fire danger.
Any updates related to the water restrictions will be forwarded to the media and posted on the Town’s website and the Town, Police and Fire social media pages.
