Central Iowa Water Works Issues Stage 3 Water Warning

(Des Moines, IA) -- A lawn watering ban is now in effect in Central Iowa. Central Iowa Water Works (CIWW) announced the ban effective immediately, a Stage 3 Water Warning, Monday afternoon. This is the second time a ban has been issued to curb non-essential water use. CIWW says reducing demand enables the region’s treatment facilities to reduce nitrates and maintain safe drinking water standards. The ban includes residential, business, and government customers.

CIWW says the action is necessary to preserve the region’s drinking water supply as water treatment facilities continue to manage elevated nitrate levels in source waters. Officials say drinking water remains safe and meets all stage and federal standards.

“Conditions have reached a point where mandatory conservation is necessary to protect reliable water service for more than 600,000 people across central Iowa,” said CIWW Executive Director Tami Madsen. “We are using every available tool in our system to maintain safe drinking water. Now we now need every customer’s help in reducing demand to maintain safe drinking water standards.”

To help manage elevated nitrate concentrations in source waters and ensure adequate treatment capacity, CIWW system is utilizing all available resources, including the Nitrate Removal Facility, Maffitt Reservoir and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) wells.

Ban Details:

• Lawn watering is prohibited except for newly installed sod or seed placed during the current growing season. Watering should be limited to the minimum amount necessary for establishment.
• Sports fields and golf courses may be irrigated only to the minimum necessary for safety and plant preservation.
• Decorative water features that do not recirculate water should be turned off.
• Customers should immediately discontinue all unnecessary outdoor water use.

Customers are also urged to reduce indoor water use wherever possible by:

• Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
• Fixing leaking faucets, fixtures and running toilets.
• Turning off water while brushing teeth or shaving.
• Delaying non-essential, high-water-use activities.

The following communities and agencies are affected by this alert: Ankeny, Clive, Johnston, Norwalk, Polk City, Waukee, Des Moines Water Works, Urbandale Water Utility, West Des Moines Water Works, Warren Water and portions of the Xenia Water District.

Those who violate the ban could have their water turned off. To report lawn watering email report@dmww.com.