The City of Westminster announced on March 31 that it will enact a Drought Watch starting Wednesday, April 15, in response to Colorado’s dry conditions and record-low snowpack impacting the city’s projected water supply. Residents and businesses are being asked to voluntarily conserve water as the region heads into the summer months, though mandatory watering restrictions are not currently in place.
A Drought Watch serves as an early alert that voluntary water conservation is needed to help extend Westminster’s community water supply. The city recommends residents limit lawn watering to no more than three days per week, water before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation, and check irrigation systems for leaks or overspray.
During summer months, most household water use goes toward lawns and gardens. The city says small adjustments in watering times and amounts can make a significant difference.
“Westminster is a community that values water,” said City Manager Jody Andrews. “Thanks to decades of conservation by our residents and businesses, our community has reduced water use by more than 20 percent since 2000. That commitment matters during dry years like this one, and continued conservation now can help reduce the need for stricter measures later.”
The city is closely monitoring snowpack levels in the Clear Creek Basin—its primary source of drinking water—as well as streamflow forecasts while coordinating with regional partners and optimizing operations for maximum available supply. Westminster encourages participation in its conservation programs with Resource Central, which include free sprinkler audits through Slow the Flow, lawn replacement assistance, Garden in a Box discounts, and education on water-wise landscaping.
Westminster has also removed non-essential turf from public spaces, upgraded irrigation systems at parks and golf courses for efficiency, and expanded reclaimed wastewater use for irrigation purposes only—helping preserve drinking supplies for homes and businesses.
Officials say they will continue monitoring drought conditions throughout spring and summer with updates provided if circumstances change.
