Carvins Cove water levels drop amid drought; water authority addresses Google data center
Carvins Cove reservoir water levels are significantly low due to an ongoing drought, causing residents to worry about the planned Google data center in Botetourt County, which is expected to draw millions of gallons from this drinking water source. The Western Virginia Water Authority is monitoring the situation, preparing for potential conservation measures, and plans to update its water management strategy to account for the data center's impact.
Carvins Cove reservoir in Virginia is currently 13 feet below its full pond level, holding 69% capacity, amidst an ongoing drought. This low water level is intensifying local concerns regarding a planned Google data center in Botetourt County, which is projected to consume millions of gallons of water from Carvins Cove, a primary source for drinking water.
Michael McEvoy, Executive Director of the Western Virginia Water Authority, stated that while not immediately concerned, the authority expects to initiate "stage 1, voluntary awareness" conservation measures by early July if conditions persist. He also acknowledged that the authority's current water management plan does not fully account for a large consumer like the Google project, and an update is intended before the data center becomes operational.
Botetourt County resident Sylvia Powell raised questions about the potential impact on private water sources, such as springs and wells, which are common in the county. McEvoy clarified that the Google project plans to draw water from Carvins Cove and will not affect groundwater sources. The Western Virginia Water Authority is actively working to conserve supply by transferring water from Spring Hollow to Carvins Cove and purchasing water from the City of Salem, though officials warn these options could become strained without significant rainfall.