The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) announced that the Western Lake Superior watershed, which includes the Duluth, Hermantown, Proctor and Rice Lake areas, had entered the Drought Warning response phase as described in the Minnesota Statewide Drought Plan.
Residents are encouraged to be mindful of their water use and to practice careful stewardship of water resources during this drought period. According to the MN DNR, during drought, water resources are particularly stressed and water conservation measures are especially important. The City of Duluth, along with all other public water suppliers in the state, is partnering with and will receive guidance from the MN DNR throughout the remainder of this drought period.
It is important for residents and businesses to conserve water inside and outside of your property. Below are some conservation tips to help alleviate stress on the water supply during this Drought Warning response phase.
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips:
- Water turf only as needed, and only between 6pm and 9pm. Most lawns only need 1” of water per week. Turn off any automatic watering controls. Only turn the water on when your lawn shows signs of excessive dryness. Limit turf watering to between 6pm and 9pm to allow for better absorption into the soil.
- Mulch trees and plants. Mulch helps prevent water evaporation and prevents some weed growth.
- Leave grass clippings in place. Grass clippings provide shade for the soil and prevent it from drying out as quickly.
- Let lawns grow longer to prevent premature drying. Let grass stay longer than normal.
- Inspect for leaks. Leaks in hoses, pipes, couplings, or sprinklers are a significant source of wasted water.
- Invest in a rain barrel. Water collected in rain barrels can be used for watering flower gardens and, if needed, lawns.
- Wash vehicles less frequently. Turn water off when not using the hose.
Indoor Water Conservation Tips:
- Fix running and/or leaking toilets.
- Turn off the tap while shaving or brushing your teeth.
- Take showers instead of baths. Low-flow showerheads save more water.
- Only run full loads of laundry and use correct water level settings on your machine.
- Run the dishwasher only when it is full.
- Use water-efficient appliances.
The City of Duluth thanks those that have already put forth water conservation efforts before and during this drought period. The City of Duluth’s drinking water is sourced from Lake Superior rather than groundwater. The City of Duluth also supplies drinking water to the cities of Hermantown, Proctor, and Rice Lake. Lake Superior is a large and reliable drinking water source; however, water conservation is a vital element of drought response plans. Water conservation helps preserve our natural resources and protect against drought impacts.
For more information on water conservation, please visit https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt_section/appropriations/conservation.html and https://www.ready.gov/drought.
