by Dennis Dalman
A total ban on the use of non-essential outdoor water usage was implemented Aug. 17 by the City of Sartell as ordered by a requirement from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
That announcement came just on the heels of a decision by the city council Aug. 11 to restrict water use to one day per week on an odd-even address formula. And before that partial ban, there had been watering restrictions for two days per week.
But, according to the Sartell Public Works department, the partial restrictions were not successful in keeping water use within DNR guidelines.
The city is now considered to be in “extreme drought.” That means there is a heightened risk of wildfires because surface waters are at near-record lows.
The new ban means the following:
• No yard sprinkling allowed.
• No power washing of buildings.
• No car washing.
• No filling of yard swimming pools.
The Watab Park splash pad will be closed until further notice.
Those who do not abide by the water ban can be issued a citation of $100, with an additional $100 for each subsequent offense.
Sandpoint systems, ponds, wells and other non-city water supply sources need not abide by the ban, though doing so is highly recommended for the time being.
Residents and businesses can apply at Sartell City Hall for a watering exemption for newly seeded or sodded lawns. All applications will be sent to the Public Works director for final inspection and approval. Allow 48 hours for the exemption to be delivered to your residence.
For questions, contact Sartell Public Works Director John Kothenbeutel at john@sartelmn.com.
