Springfield's water supply OK, but conservation 'always a good idea' - News-Leader

Springfield's water supply OK, but conservation 'always a good idea'

Almost all of Missouri is experiencing drought, but Springfield water supply OK for now
Susan Szuch

As summer soldiers on, Missouri continues to dry out. According to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's U.S. Drought Monitor, 99% of the state was experiencing some level of drought as of July 11.

In Nixa, residents recently received a message from the city urging the public to "use less water for things like watering lawns of washing vehicles." According to the City of Nixa, "Nixa Utilities water department had to shut down one of our wells because the water table is only 4 feet above the pump and we can’t risk pulling mud or air into the system."

More: Drought? Springfield spared as statewide conditions worsen

So do Springfield citizens have to worry? Not yet, says Joel Alexander, City Utilities spokesperson, but it never hurts to be conscious of water usage.

Currently, water storage for McDaniel and Fellows lakes is at 82%, which is below the 91% average. CU activated its Stockton Lake pumps earlier in July.

"Conserving and using our water resources wisely is always a good idea but with the drought situation all around us, it’s important for everyone to help," Alexander said in an email. "As one of our former managers liked to say, we can store, treat, and deliver the water, but we can’t create it."

If the storage capacity falls to 60%, City Utilities would activate its Emergency Water Conservation Plan.

Nixa asks residents to limit filling pools, washing boats

Though Nixa is not yet implementing mandatory water use restrictions, the city is asking the public to do the following:

- Minimize outdoor watering as much as possible;
- Odd number addresses should water lawns only on odd number calendar days;
- Even number addresses should water lawns only on even number calendar days;
- Refrain from washing sidewalks, driveways, or other exterior surfaces;
- Limit washing of vehicles, boats, and other equipment;
- Limit filling or refilling of pools and hot tubs, tanks, or other vessels not used directly for public health.

For Springfield residents, Alexander recommended that those looking to conserve water — and save some money — use the even/odd watering method, as well. To find additional tips, customers can visit the City Utility website at cityutilities.net/save/water.

Susan Szuch is the health and public policy reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. Follow her on Twitter @szuchsm. Story idea? Email her at sszuch@gannett.com.