Regional Water Rural Water Association (RWRWA) has issued the highest mandatory water use restrictions on its Emergency Water Conservation Plan for the region. The region covers five counties, including southern Audubon County and the cities of Exira and Brayton, where water demand has exceeded supply levels, with water sources operating at 25 percent capacity, as of this (Thursday) morning. With drought conditions persisting with below-average rainfall, a “Level RED” advisory and the boil order have been issued until further notice. RWRWA General Manager, Tom Kallman, says, “The priority of use is for human consumption, personal hygiene, and cooking.” Effective immediately, water usage for non-essential things such as watering lawns and gardens, washing vehicles, filling swimming pools, or hot tubs is prohibited. Restaurants may only serve water to customers upon request, leaks must be repaired within 48 hours of detection, and residents must continue to conserve water by taking shorter showers, running dishwashers, and washing machines with full loads only. Audubon County officials will continue to monitor the situation and post daily updates on the Audubon County Emergency Management Facebook page, a link to which is included below. Audubon County remains in a burn ban until further notice as a preventative measure. Individuals switching to well water for a source can have their well tested for free through the County Health Services, schedule a test by calling 641-747-3972 or using the link online. For additional questions, contact the RWRWA Regional Water Office at 712-343-2413.
