Des Moines Water Works Asks Residents, Businesses to Reduce Water Use by 10 Percent

With temperatures continuing to rise and water use at an all-time high in the metro, Des Moines Water Works Tuesday asked residents and businesses to conserve water.

Although rain does make an appearance in this week's forecast, it's not likely to make much difference in what's been called the worst drought since 1956.

The Des Moines Register reported that while the water supply level hasn't reached crisis stage, emergency plans are being developed that include National Guard troops hauling in water and an unprecedented release of water from Saylorville Reservoir.

On Tuesday, Des Moines Water Works implemented a voluntary water conservation plan to reduce water use by 10 percent for all metro residents and businesses.

The system supplies about 60 million gallons of water on a typical summer day, but this year more than 90 million gallons per day have been supplied.

Des Moines Water Works made several suggestions to conserve water.

• Let your lawn go dormant or run sprinklers prior to 6 a.m.
• Take quick showers.
• Be sure to run full loads of clothes and dishes when running a washer and dishwasher.

In Waukee, residents are under a peak alert as the hot, dry weather continues to create a greater demand for irrigation, recreation and hydration.

The Central Iowa Regional Drinking Water Commission (CIRDWC) issues the peak alert when temperatures exceed 95 degrees. Today's high temperature is expected to reach 104 degrees.

The Register reported Tuesday that if the drought worsens and water usage remains high, tougher water restrictions, including hefty increases in water bills could be enforced to conserve water.