Denison Municipal Utilities

                                        News Release March 18, 2025 The Denison Municipal Utilities’ (DMU) Board of Trustees implemented a Water Watch which is the first step of the Water Conservation Plan approved by the Board.  The Water Conservation Plan has three steps or phases that can be implemented by the Board based on the ability of the water system to meet the needs of the customers.  Under a Water Watch water customers of DMU and West Central Iowa Rural Water Association (WCIRWA) are being asked to conserve water.  The extended dry spell has caused ground water levels to drop at the municipal water wells and customer demand for irrigation, recreation and hydration has increased. The wells are still able to produce water, but the water levels are trending down. To provide the water needed for all essential residential, commercial, industrial uses, and municipal fire protection, we ask customers to be mindful of their water use during this prolonged hot, dry period.  Steps that should be taken to conserve water include: 1. No watering of lawns, shrubs or gardens between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 2. No water should be used to fill private swimming pools, reflecting pools or any other outdoor pool or pond.   Under 200 gallons is ok. 3. No water should be used for nonessential cleaning of commercial and industrial equipment, machinery and interior spaces. 4. No water shall be used to wash streets, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks or building exteriors. 5. Water should be served at restaurants only upon the request of the customer. 6. Car washing is prohibited except in commercial establishments that provide the service. 7. Washing machines and dishwashers should only be run when you have a full load. 8. Check for leaks in faucets and toilets and get them repaired. 9. Also, it is common that during hot weather people take more showers and baths.  Consider shortening the length of time in the shower and perhaps fill the bathtub only ½ full. WATER WATCH PENALTIES The following penalties shall apply for violations of Water Watch use restrictions imposed under this plan. 1. For a first violation, the utility shall issue a verbal or written notice of violation to the water user violating the water use restrictions imposed during a Water Watch. 2. For any subsequent violations within a 12-month period, a $50 surcharge shall be imposed on the customer’s water bill. DMU and WCIRWA regret the need to ask the public for this conservation effort but believe it is in the best interest of the entire area.   If everyone does their part, even in a small way, DMU will be able to continue to provide an adequate supply of water for the essential purposes of the City of Denison and the surrounding rural areas. For more information or if you have questions: Contact:Rory Weis, General Manager or Luke Gillmor, Water Manager 263-4154                         263-4458