(from news release)
Parts of Sartell have been categorized as areas of “extreme drought” by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and because of that the city is reminding residents, once again, to follow the odd/even watering ordinance.
That ordinance, in drought conditions, is vital to avoid a complete watering ban and to preserve the city’s drinking-water supply and to ensure there is enough water for fire-fighting.
The ordinance does not include well systems or personal sand points.
The even/odd restrictions are as follows:
- Even house numbers (example: 132 Test Ave.) water on even calendar days, such as Aug. 8.
- Odd house numbers (example: 133 Test Ave.) water on odd calendar days, such as Aug. 9.
The city also recommends running irrigation systems from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.
The DNR is also offering other recommendations to conserve water:
- Limit any non-essential outdoor water use, especially lawn irrigation, power washing buildings, car washing and swimming-pool filling.
- Water grass as needed. Most lawns need only 1 inch of water weekly.
- Mulch trees and plants. Mulching helps prevent water evaporation and prevents some weed growth.
- Leave grass clippings in place. They provide shade for the soil.
- Let the grass grow longer than normal to prevent premature dying.
- Check for leaks, such as in hoses, pipes, couplings or sprinklers waste water. Leaks can cause so much water waste.
- Invest in a rain barrel. Water collected in such barrels can be used for watering gardens and, if needed, lawns.
These notices/advisories are from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and as a partner with the DNR, the City of Sartell is complying with the recommendations. Sartell is asking for full cooperation in the odd/even irrigation schedule to avoid further restrictions or a full water ban.
