Date:

July 25, 2003

For More Information Contact:

Dave Norris, Citizen Information Center, 441-7547

Jerry Obrist, Lincoln Water System, 441-7571

With normal monthly rainfall for July down by over three inches, Mayor Coleen J. Seng and Lincoln Water System (LWS) officials remind residents that voluntary outside water conservation measures have been in effect since April 1 and will continue until further notice. The public will be informed if changes are needed due to continued hot and dry weather. Current July precipitation is at .045 inches compared to the normal monthly average of 3.54 inches, according to High Plains Regional Climate Center at UN-L.

Addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 are asked to limit outside water use to Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Those with addresses ending in 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 are asked to water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Citizens are also asked to wash vehicles on the same schedule.

"We have been fortunate to receive more rain this summer than last, but drought conditions continue," said Mayor Seng. "Water conservation is always important, and the voluntary assistance of the public to conserve outside water use is greatly appreciated."

LWS Engineer Jerry Obrist said current water flow levels in the Platte River are slightly below normal. Water usage has averaged 65.75 million gallons a day in July. City water officials say that is an acceptable usage, but the City will continue to monitor outside usage and river flows.

LWS recommends the following conservation tips:

• Water during the cool part of the day, and avoid watering on windy days.
• Adjust sprinklers to water only the lawn, not the sidewalk or street.
• Use a broom, not a hose and water, for outdoor cleaning.
• Wash your vehicles with a pail of soapy water, using the hose only to rinse the car.

A brochure called "A Guide to Planting Waterwise" is available on the City web site, the County-City Building, local nurseries and garden retailers, that offers water conservation tips.

City residents are also reminded that water fees are structured to encourage conservation – the more water used, the higher the rate. Information on water rates can also be found on the City web site.