Oak Island splashpad to reduce hours amid worsening drought conditions

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — The Town of Oak Island is reducing operating hours at its popular splashpad as officials work to conserve water during Brunswick County’s ongoing Mandatory Water Conservation Alert.

Beginning Monday, July 13, the splashpad will be closed Monday through Thursday and will operate only Friday through Sunday during its regular hours.

Town officials said the change is intended to reduce water use as drought conditions continue to worsen across the region.

According to the town, the splashpad requires more than 2,000 gallons of water each day to replace water lost through evaporation and overspray.

The revised schedule will not affect the splashpad’s extended Friday evening hours during the Summer Concert Series, and private rentals already booked will still be honored. However, future private rentals will only be available on Saturdays and Sundays.

The schedule adjustment comes as parts of Brunswick County are now experiencing Exceptional Drought (D4) — the highest level on the U.S. Drought Monitor. Brunswick County remains under a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert, with officials urging residents to reduce non-essential water use and follow irrigation schedules.

Town officials said Parks and Recreation staff will continue operating the splashpad on the reduced schedule for as long as possible while balancing conservation efforts.

Officials are also encouraging residents to do their part by minimizing unnecessary water use to help delay the need for additional restrictions as the drought persists.

The town will continue providing updates on its drought response and water conservation measures as conditions evolve.