The city of Crookston has issued water restrictions effective today. The decision comes after the severe drought continues throughout the summer in northwest Minnesota. The restrictions, however, will be more like guidelines and recommendations and not fully enforced at this time. The city does not believe things are as bad as they could be but want to be cautious.
City of Crookston Public Works Director Brandon Carlson shared the implications and suggestions for the community. “We’re asking residents and business owners if you apply, to irrigate your yard or lawn based on your address,” said Carlson. “If you have an even address, we recommend watering on an even day of the calendar, and if your address is odd then water on an odd day of the calendar.”
A resolution with the suggestion was presented before City Council at Monday night’s meeting, and the vote passed unanimously to implement the restrictions. “As of the passing of the resolution, the restrictions will be in effect immediately,” said Carlson. “It’s more of us encouraging responsible irrigation as of now, and if things continue to get worse then we may have to take the next step.”
Other cities in the area have already taken action and put restrictions into place. The most recent was Grand Forks ND, just last week. References to look at can be found at the DNR’s drought website Drought in Minnesota | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us).
Carlson mentioned resources on the DNR website that may help homeowners understand how much water they should be using. “There are calculators on the DNR website that can be used to calculate how much water is needed to maintain a healthy lawn,” said Carlson. “We’re not saying quit all together but be responsible with how much you are using during this drought.”
A notice will be sent out at some point letting the public know about the decision and with all the suggestions from the city. For more updates and any other questions, you can visit the City of Crookston website City of Crookston, Minnesota for more information.
