(Lawrenceville, Ga., Jan. 12, 2010) - Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charles Bannister praised county residents for conserving water even after the drought ended last year.

Average water usage was 71.3 million gallons per day in 2009 compared with 71.9 million in 2008 and almost 18 percent lower than the 86.8 million gallons used in 2007. Total usage for the year was 26 billion gallons, compared with 26.3 in 2008.

"With our raw water supply in the hands of others, we need to be good stewards of this resource," said Bannister, referring to Georgia's ongoing water wars with Alabama and Florida. "I encourage everyone to keep up the good work."

The 11 billion gallons saved over the past two years is the equivalent of one foot in Lake Lanier, which is now back up to full level. "We've had a wet year but normally when a drought ends people tend to slip back to their old habits. We're very pleased that our customers are not doing that," said Acting Director of Water Resources Lynn Smarr.

Officials attributed part of the savings to the ongoing and very successful rebate program that pays between $50 and $100 for replacing old, inefficient toilets. Details are available at toiletrebate@northgeorgiawater.org or by calling (404) 463-8645. More water-saving tips for homes and businesses are at www.gwinnettcounty.com under Water Resources or (678) 376-6800.