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(Pottawattamie County, IA) -- Water usage restrictions and boil advisories are still in effect for many residents of southwestern Iowa. Last week, many residents were placed under a boil advisory. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, it is recommended that all Avoca Treatment Plant customers boil water before drinking due to depressurization in water towers, which increases the potential for bacterial growth. Around half of Avoca residents were left without water.
Pottawattamie County has issued a Level Red water restriction advisory, the highest level of mandatory water restriction. According to a press release from the county, the restrictions affect the Avoca Treatment Plant System, which includes members and customers of Shelby, Audubon, Cass, Harrison, and northern Pottawattamie Counties, leaving many southwestern Iowa residents affected heading into summer.
The county says the restriction is due to continued drought conditions and below-average rainfall, water sources operating at less than 60 percent capacity, and exceeding demand.
These are the new water use restrictions in place:
- No outdoor watering of lawns, gardens, or landscapes.
- No washing of vehicles, driveways, sidewalks, or buildings.
- No filling or refilling of swimming pools, hot tubs, or ornamental fountains.
- Restaurants may only serve water upon request.
- Lodging facilities must offer guests the option to reuse linens and towels.
- All leaks must be repaired within 48 hours of detection.
- Water use for construction purposes is restricted to essential activities only.
Water use will be monitored, and fines may be issued to people found in violation of the regulations. There has not been a specific date announced for when the restrictions will be lifted.