What do Stage 1 voluntary water restrictions mean for Pueblo West residents?
The Pueblo West Metro District entered Stage 1 of its voluntary water restrictions in the hope of reducing the monthly water use by 10%. The district said the restrictions come as a result of below average snowpack this year, and despite precipitation the community has seen recently, it noted this is a necessary step in reserving a precious resource. Our water conservation policy is based off our average snowpack from the Western slope, Water Utilities Director for the district Jim Blasing said. The last two years, a lot of people know throughout the state of Colorado, the snowpack has diminished greatly.  Colorado has been in severe drought conditions, and as 2020 concluded it was noted being the warmest year on record in the state since 1895. MORE: Pueblo West Metro District discusses hiring firms to replace district manager  The Stage 1 restrictions are voluntary, but Blasing said he hopes the community will come together to accomplish the 10% reduction in monthly water use. For its part in reducing water use, the district said as of June 21 its splash pad will only be open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.  We understand that some residents want to go (to the splash pad) during the week, Communications and Public Relations Manager Samantha Dosen said. But this is just our united effort for all of our metro departments to work together with the water department for water conservation.  Dosen added limiting the hours was one of the most beneficial ways to contribute to this united front it hopes the community will be on board for. The district has also cut down on water usage by changing how it maintains park areas. For the communitys part in this, the district is asking that residents limit landscape watering to two days a week after 7 p.m. and before 7 a.m.  MORE: Pueblo West Metro District considers incorporation during special meeting  Were not asking people to not water their landscape, just to do it at the most effective times, Dosen said. In the middle of the day, its not the most effective because the water is just evaporating when its 90 degrees outside. Were just asking the residents to use the best practices when they water.  The additional restrictions the district is asking the community to abide by include:  Reducing hydrant use  Reducing vehicle washing  Limiting the irrigation of flowers, shrubs, trees and ornamental gardens to a handheld hose, soaker hose, bucket, or drip irrigation system  Minimize or discontinue water use for all non-essential purposes  Each of these restrictions have come with the exception of the health, safety and welfare of the public. Additional water conservation tips can be found on the districts website at pueblowestmetro.com/water. Chieftain and Pueblo West View reporter Alexis Smith can be reached by email at asmith@chieftain.com or on Twitter @smith_alexis27.