The city of Manitou Springs is urging residents and businesses to prioritize water conservation by using water for only essential needs for the next 48 hours. The city’s water treatment plant is facing limitations in processing the increased volume of turbid water caused by heavy rainfall and snowmelt.
Although the abundance of rain might suggest an ample water supply, it does not translate into the capacity for the water treatment plant to effectively treat and meet local demands during peak season.
The excessive rainfall has led to elevated sediment and particle content in French Creek, the city’s primary water source. Consequently, the water treatment plant and its filters are constrained in their ability to process sufficient water. The Mesa Storage Tank, which holds the city’s main water supply, is not being adequately replenished.
Many water treatment plants face similar challenges, but Manitou Springs is particularly affected due to its unique geographic location and recent local weather conditions.
The Mesa Storage Tank, with a capacity of 2 million gallons, is at approximately 25 percent capacity, about half of the city’s desired capacity. To ensure sufficient water availability for everyone, it is crucial that water usage be limited to essential needs only.
By significantly reducing water usage, the city expects the Mesa Storage Tank to replenish to healthy levels within approximately two days.
Updates are available here.
Water conservation recommendations:
- Stop using sprinklers and hoses to water outdoors;
- Use water for essential needs such as showering, cooking and drinking;
- Refrain from using water to wash sidewalks and cars;
- Keep your showers short; and
- Avoid doing laundry and running a dishwasher. If you must do these activities, run the machines on the briefest settings.