The City of Adel Water Works has put the public on alert regarding water conservation this summer, instituting a “Water Watch” effective immediately.

With recent and forecasted hot and dry weather, the City has experienced high water demands. As a result, the water department has called for a watch, which is the first stage of the City’s water conservation plan. Since the plan was created in 2017, Adel has issued a water watch each summer, sometimes advancing it to a “Water Warning.” The watch is a voluntary initiative for residents, as they are asked to limit outside watering during times of extreme heat. In particular, citizens are encouraged to water their lawns between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., as evaporation takes away the majority of watering during the hotter daytime hours.

If the watch stage is unsuccessful or potential drought conditions worsen, the City could then move into a warning, where water conservation is no longer voluntary and those in violation of it could be fined. As a reminder, the Adel water conservation plan is only for residents hooked into the City’s water supply. Water watches and warnings do not apply to Xenia Rural Water customers. Anyone with questions can reach out to Adel City Hall at 515-993-4525.