During the Linden Utilities Board meeting on Tuesday, Public Works Director Terry Tyson said the water well levels have experienced a 24 percent drop over the past month. Currently they are investigating whether or not the loss in water is a product of the drought conditions or if there is another source.

There are several catfish farms in the area that may have contributed to the water levels dropping, but Tyson has not confirmed that information.

For now, the City of Linden is asking citizens to conserve water on a voluntary basis.

The Board will be issuing a public service announcement that will give the details of this voluntary conservation effort.

The City of Demopolis has also asked for citizens to remain cautious of water usage.

As far as water well levels, the drought has not produced significantly different numbers than in previous years.

&8220;Our levels are a little lower than normal, and if they do get any lower we will have to take serious action,&8221; Williamson said.

Worst drought in Alabama history

In other parts of the state, water levels have experienced significant drops.

Officials said the Alabama River is not navigable for barges between Mobile and Selma and the lack of rainfall is threatening some drinking water systems.

Selma Mayor James Perkins said Tuesday the drought is a disaster for cities that depend on waterways for economic development and recreation. He said both the Alabama River and aquifers the city depends on for drinking water are &8220;as low as they have ever been.&8221;

Perkins compared the drought to a hurricane.

A letter signed by more than 50 concerned citizens, including 25 mayors, has asked Governor Riley to work with the Alabama&8217;s congressional delegation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the state Legislature to come up with solutions to keep waterways open. Solutions mentioned included dredging the Alabama River and other waterways to make them navigable for barges and releasing water from out-of-state reservoirs that feed into Alabama lakes and rivers.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.