It’s been a long hot, dry summer.  As of August 20, the region has had 60 days over 90 degrees, and through July we have received less than 7 inches of precipitation for the year, compared with almost 12 inches in 2019.  The entire state of Colorado is now in a drought, and there is little relief in sight as forecasts indicate the weather for the rest of August and September is likely to be warmer and drier than normal.

What does this mean for the community’s water supply?  On August 19, we hit a record of 3.6 million gallons of water treated at the water treatment plant, and average water use in the District hit a high of 14,000 gallons for the month of July.

With regard to the community’s water supply, the mountain reservoirs that provide our water are still in good shape, but it’s important for residents to continue to use water wisely.  Using water efficiently now will help keep as much water as possible in those mountain reservoirs and available if we’re at the beginning of the region’s next long-term drought.  If those mountain reservoirs are drawn down too low by high water use now and we have a dry winter, next summer could see even tighter watering restrictions.

It’s important for residents to abide by RWSD’s summer watering restrictions that remain in place until October 1.  Automatic sprinklers are allowed 2 days per week and no watering is allowed between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.  Drip systems and hand watering are allowed at any time.  Please don’t water when it’s raining, and don’t waste water by letting your sprinkler system spray the sidewalk or street.  Check to make sure your sprinkler system is running efficiently and make sure toilets are not leaking.  Not only will you reduce water use, but you’ll also save money on your water bill.