Full Breakdown
Durango Implements Water Restrictions Amid Severe Drought Conditions
4/10/2026, 6:37:46 PM
Overview of Water Restrictions
The city of Durango, Colorado, is set to implement water restrictions in response to extreme drought conditions, with plans to introduce these measures within the week. Public Works Director John Harris highlighted the urgency of the situation during a recent City Council meeting, noting that the city’s existing 2020 water supply and drought management plan lacks enforceable actions. As a result, the city will enact stage 1 restrictions, which will limit lawn watering to three days a week, with specific days assigned to each household to manage demand effectively.
Details of the Restrictions
The proposed restrictions aim to address the fact that lawn irrigation constitutes approximately 70% of the city's water usage, averaging 100 gallons per capita per day. Under the new guidelines, residents will be prohibited from washing driveways and sidewalks, and outdoor fountain use will be entirely banned. Harris indicated that businesses would also be encouraged to reduce their water consumption, with further restrictions anticipated if conditions worsen. The city plans to suspend its vehicle washing program for fleet vehicles unless public health is at risk and will temporarily halt fire hydrant flushing.
Context of the Drought
Durango is currently experiencing severe drought conditions, with most of La Plata County classified as being in extreme drought, and some areas facing exceptional drought. The snowpack, which is crucial for water supply, is at a record low of just 13% of normal levels, significantly impacting the city's water resources. The city primarily relies on the Florida River for its water supply, with additional rights to draw from the Animas River when necessary. However, using the Animas River incurs substantial costs, with electrical expenses for pumping alone reaching approximately $100,000 annually.
Future Implications
If conditions do not improve, the city may escalate to stage 2 restrictions, which would further limit lawn irrigation to just two days per week and aim for a 33% reduction in water use. Harris emphasized the need for residents to adapt to these changes early in the season, as demand typically surges from July to September.
Criticism and Opposition
While the city is taking proactive measures, some residents may view the restrictions as insufficient given the severity of the drought. Critics argue that the city should have implemented more stringent measures sooner, especially as the drought conditions have been worsening over the years.
Official Statements
Harris stated, “The greatest opportunity to reduce water use is to cut back on our lawn irrigation where we can.” He also noted, “Most people have not yet started irrigating their lawns. It would be good to get folks in the habit of these changes as they turn on their systems for the year.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “By spreading the irrigation out over a six-day period, people will still be able to irrigate three days a week,” — John Harris, Public Works Director
- “Shades of gray, really – there’s not a lot of water,” — John Harris, Public Works Director
- “We are technically in what we call a normal condition. Water is flowing as it normally would this time of year,” — John Harris, Public Works Director
As Durango navigates these challenging water management issues, the city is committed to revising its drought management plan to enhance enforcement capabilities and ensure sustainable water use in the face of ongoing drought conditions.
