07-26-2021 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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July 16, 2021 Dear water suppliers in areas with severe drought conditions, With more than 50 percent of Minnesota experiencing severe drought and some areas experiencing extreme drought, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has determined that the state is now in the drought warning phase. With this designation, the DNR and others are taking additional steps such as restricting some water uses. Water Supplier Actions Needed The State Drought Plan specifies actions that water suppliers must implement once the state is elevated to drought warning phase. 1. Population over 1,000 - Public water suppliers implement appropriate water use restrictions contained in their Water Supply Plan. a. Your plan can be found in your MPARS account, under the Attachments tab. b. Begin implementing your Water Supply demand reduction measures in Plan Part 2 (Tables 18, 19). These actions can be supported by measures that are identified in the Water Supply Plan, Part 3 Water Conservation. 2. All Water Suppliers - Public water suppliers will implement water use reduction actions with a goal of reducing water use to 50% above January levels. a. For example: A city uses 4 million gallons of water in January, and normally uses 6.8 million in August. During the drought warning phase, they should only use 6 million gallons in August. b. Websites with water conservation messages: DNR Water Conservation webpage and https://www.ready.gov/drought. Significant demand reduction is achievable by restricting or banning non-essential outdoor water use, especially lawn irrigation, power washing buildings, car washing and swimming pool filling. Encourage customers to fix leaks, install water saving devices and water-efficient appliances. Have conversations with your biggest water users and ask them how they might reduce water use, especially during peak times. Use a variety of communication methods: Large exterior signs around the community, mailing/emailing all customers, radio station announcements, Facebook posts or other social media, and a news release to any local media. Explain the critical situation and that you need everyone’s help. Ask customers to conserve water as much as possible. Other Suggestions: • During times of severe drought, monitor your water levels closely. Keep in mind that water quality may be impacted by increased concentrations of contaminants. • Please alert your local DNR hydrologist to any water supply concerns or issues during the summer.