Twin Falls urges water conservation after irrigation delivery cuts

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The City of Twin Falls is asking residents connected to pressurized irrigation systems to conserve water after the Twin Falls Canal Company announced another reduction in canal water deliveries, according to a recent press release.

City officials said ongoing drought conditions across southern Idaho are forcing deliveries to drop from 5/8 miner’s inch per share to 1/2 miner’s inch beginning Thursday, May 28. That is a 33% reduction from full water rights. It marks the third water curtailment in five years.

“These additional reductions make water conservation even more critical,” said Rob Bohling, water superintendent for the City of Twin Falls. “Watering outside assigned schedules or during peak demand times impacts your neighbors and the reliability of the entire system.”

Residents are reminded to follow the city’s watering schedule: Even-numbered addresses water on even-numbered dates. Odd-numbered addresses water on odd-numbered dates.

Twin Falls Code Enforcement will continue educating residents on water conservation rules. First-time violations may receive warnings, while repeat violations could lead to fines.

The city is also asking residents to water during lower-demand times, such as midday, to help maintain system pressure. Customers can monitor subdivision pump demand at TFID.org.

City officials said the pressurized irrigation system helps reduce demand on the aquifer by nearly 5 million gallons per day by using untreated canal water for outdoor irrigation instead of drinking water. Residents are reminded that pressurized irrigation water is not safe to drink.

For more information, visit the City of Twin Falls website or call Utility Services at 208-736-2275.