Water Conservation - Recommended Watering Schedules

With the extreme temperatures, coupled with the prolonged dry spell, water consumption has increased dramatically.  Demand for water has doubled, and at times even tripled.  With the forecast of triple digit temperatures this week, it is expected that the City’s wells and production facilities may be pushed to the limit.  Therefore, the Water Department is urging all customers to water wisely during this unprecedented event in order to ensure all citizens have adequate water.

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:

• Do not water between the hours of noon and 6:00 P.M.  Water evaporates quickly during the times of high heat and watering may contribute to the grass burning in the intense sun.  Optimal times to water are early morning between 4:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M., and during the evening from 6:00 P.M. to 9 P.M.  Watering after 9:00 P.M. is not recommended as it may promote non-desirable conditions which detract from the looks of the lawn. 

• Be careful not to overwater.  Adjust your irrigation timers appropriately so your grass gets the proper amount of water needed.  If you are watering on a slope, water for a shorter amount of time and more frequently, ensuring enough time between cycles for the water to soak in.    

• Trim the grass at the highest setting.  Taller grass maintains better moisture content at the roots, developing a healthier root system. 

• Check your irrigation system to ensure all heads are functioning properly.  Adjust the heads so they are not watering asphalt or concrete, and are spraying a steady, consistent pattern, head-to-head, with larger water droplets.  If replacements are needed, consider installing new MP (Matched Precipitation) Rotator sprinkler heads which water more efficiently while consuming less water.  The pressure on the irrigation system should be between 30 to 45 psi, as sprinkler heads are designed to function efficiently in this range.  

In order to prevent water shortages and pressure drops when temperatures consistently exceed 90 degrees, the Water Department recommends that you consider voluntary odd/even watering schedules.  Odd numbered addresses water on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.  Even numbered addresses water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.  The Water Department understands the desire to keep lawns and green spaces healthy and visually pleasing, but we all must do our part to water wisely and ensure sufficient water for all the City’s customers.

If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the Water Department at (208)769-2210.

Thank you.