08/20/2026
WATER SUPPLY UPDATE: We received some welcome rainstorms, but drought conditions remain firmly in place. At DIA, the year-to-date precipitation deficit is still 4.24 inches. The storms were highly localized rather than widespread, limiting their overall hydrologic benefit.
Our storage reservoirs, which rely on mountain snowpack, are so far behind that it is clear we’ll need to take additional steps in response to drought conditions worsening this summer, so Denver Water is looking at ending to lawn watering season on Oct. 1. If the board approves this recommendation, which is expected to be considered later in August, it would mean that customers can only hand-water trees and plants, but will be required to turn off spray irrigation systems after Sept. 30.
If you are the only one on your block with a lush green lawn, you might want to revisit your watering practices, as your overuse is compounding the impacts of this historic drought on our water storage supplies. We’re asking everyone to care more and water less, so we don’t have to take more drastic steps in the future, which could create more damaging impacts to our landscapes. Our reservoirs are projected to be only 60% full next spring — every drop saved goes a long way in helping us stretch our water supplies.
