(Le Mars) — Due to the recent dry conditions, the Le Mars city council took formal action on Tuesday to request residents and businesses to limit their water usage. The action by the city council only calls for a volunteer reduction of water, not a mandatory restriction. City administrator Scott Langel informed
the city council through a telephone conference call that the city is capable of handling up to six million gallons of water per day, but he indicated any amount close to five million gallons is reason to be concerned. Langel told the city council that between July 16th through July 22nd, the average usage of water was
at 4,492,000 gallons a day with the maximum listed at 4,915,000 gallons. Langel did report that there was a 13 percent reduction in water usage after city officials initially asked residents and businesses to reduce their water usage.
Between July 23rd to July 28th the average daily water use was at 3,902,000 gallons of water with the maximum amount at 4,326,000 gallons of water. Langel says the city needs to implement stage 1 of the city’s water conservation plan.
Langel reports that water has been released from storage and there is an indication that without wise usage of water, a shortage in water supplies could occur. City officials ask residents and businesses to water lawns early in the
morning, prior to 6:00 a.m. to take advantage of the coolest times when the evaporation rate is less. Irrigating in the evening may result in potential fungus development on the lawn. Second, city officials ask that you check the interior plumbing for faucet and/or toilet leaks, and to make the necessary repairs. A third suggestion is to clean outside surfaces such as patios,
driveways, and sidewalks using a broom rather than a hose. Wash vehicles with a bucket and hose with a shut-off nozzle, rather than continuously running water through a hose. Fill sinks with water for tasks such as washing dishes,
preparing food, brushing teeth, and shaving, rather than leaving water running.
The city also suggests residents install water-saving devices in showers, and use automatic dishwashers and washing machines with only full loads whenever possible. The city also wants residents to use water wisely for outdoor recreation, such as playing in a sprinkler, water toys, water slides, and swimming pools.
The city will also be taking steps to conserve water such as refrain from hydrant flushing, and reduce the watering of golf courses. City officials hope there will be a 10 percent reduction, or city officials may implement a mandatory restriction on water usage.
