A small town is strongly feeling the effects of the recent drought, having just issued a water restriction that affects residents and nearby farms alike.
The Town of Leader released a statement outlining some temporary restrictions to ensure that water is not being wasted but allows people to use it in moderation. This is due to the current low levels and forecast of low volume flow rates of the town’s main water source, the South Saskatchewan River. The restrictions will be reviewed at the next regular council meeting on September 5.
The restrictions are mainly on outdoor water usage, as they prohibit outdoor water use beyond watering lawns and plants. This means it is prohibited to wash cars, driveways, sidewalks, and buildings.
A makeshift schedule has been put in place for residents to water their lawns, allowing those with odd numbered addresses to water on Thursday and Sunday, while those with even numbered addresses may water on Wednesday and Saturday. Watering is to take place between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., as well as 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Gardens or flowerbeds may be watered at any time.
Aside from residential areas, the restrictions state that site and condition specific metered irrigation must be approved by the Town. The final stipulation is that bulk water is limited to 7,500 gallons over a 30-day period, per each water account.
The implications of such a statement could be huge, including making it difficult for local farmers to irrigate, as well as maintaining fire preventatives such as personal fire tanks or water wagons.
Wed, May 22, 9:00 AM
