(KNSI) — The City of Waite Park has issued a total watering ban, effective immediately.
All non-essential outdoor water use of power washing buildings and outdoor surfaces, private property washing of vehicles, boats, etc. and filling swimming pools is prohibited after the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources moved the drought warning phase to severe.
The city will only hand water flower beds, trees, and planters. Residents and property owners can hand water their flower and vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs, and potted plants. The Splash Pad, which has a recycled water system, will have reduced hours from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The plan is to have the Splash Pad remain open until the season closes on September 5th.
The city says the ban will reduce demand and preserve the drinking water supply until the DNR removes the drought warning or until the City Council revises it. If the drought conditions worsen, additional water reduction measures will be implemented to comply with the DNR’s Statewide Drought Plan.
The DNR estimates it will take five to nine inches of rain over the next month to significantly alleviate the drought.
Outside Water Conservation Tips:
Mulch your trees and plants – Mulch prevents water evaporation and weed growth.
Leave grass clippings in place – grass clippings provide shade for the soil.
Let the grass grow longer to prevent premature dying – let the grass stay longer than normal.
Check for leaks – Leaks in hoses, pipes, couplings, or sprinklers wastes water.
Invest in a rain barrel – water collected in these barrels can be used for watering gardens and, if needed, lawns.
Inside Water Conservation Tips:
Fix running toilets.
Turn off the tap while shaving or brushing your teeth.
Take a shower instead of a bath. Low Flow showerheads save more water.
Only run full loads of laundry and use the correct water level settings.
Only run the dishwasher when full.
Use water-efficient appliances (look for the WaterSense label).
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