Water Consumption Up Despite Restrictions
The City of Mineral Wells weekly drought contingency update issued on April 14th shows water consumption has increased despite outdoor watering restrictions being enacted within the City.
According to a press release issued, water consumption increased 4% from the previous week, despite an overall Stage II goal to reduce consumption by 25%. However, the increase didn’t completely fall on the residents.
A portion of this increase was attributed to major water leaks in Mineral Wells on SW 1st Street, East Highway 180, and one by the Millsap Water Supply Corporation in an unknown location.
City water customers are under a complete outdoor watering ban with the exception of pets. The City says they have begun enforcement of outdoor watering violations which can impose a fine of up to $500.
The level of Lake Palo Pinto continues to fall (down 2.04 inches since last week) so STAGE II Drought Conditions/Restrictions remain in effect. Commercial and Industrical exemptions are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis relative to a written plan and “business necessity”. Many customers are utilizing effluent reuse water from Pollard WWTP for their outdoor watering needs.
The current level of Palo Pinto Lake is 860 feet and if it drops below 857 feet, Stage III of the drought contingency plan will take be enacted. The weather forecast shows a 35% chance of rain in the lake’s watershed next on April 18th, but no other rain chances for next week are forecasted.
