Drought Conditions in the Pinery
Drought Stage 2 - Updated on 3/25/2026We live in a semi-arid climate where “dry” is normal. Although the Pinery receives an average of less than 20” of rain each year, each spring the creeks and rivers across the Front Range fill with runoff from snow melting in the mountains high above. Tracking the snowpack gives us an idea of how much surface water may be available in the coming season. The 2025-2026 winter was marked by dry conditions and higher than normal temperatures, so the snowpack is extremely low. Additionally, the National Weather Service predicts that through July 2026, temperatures will be above normal and precipitation will be below normal.
The Colorado Drought Monitor map is a trigger point for Pinery Water’s drought stage, as shown in the table below. The map is updated each Thursday and can be accessed here: Drought Monitor Map
The Pinery Water Board approved a Drought Response Plan in 2022. The plan lays out how Pinery Water determines its drought stage and what actions are taken at each stage. This information is summarized in the table below, where each stage’s response also includes the response actions for the prior stages.
| Drought Stage | Description | Trigger Points | Target | Key Response Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 – D0 | Abnormally Dry – Watch | Colorado Drought Monitor Map | Customer Awareness | Increased communication |
| Stage 2 – D1-D2 | Moderate Drought – Warning | Colorado Drought Monitor Map Walker Reservoir below 80% capacity |
10% Reduction in Use | Voluntary watering restrictions Water usage audits |
| Stage 3 – D3 | Extreme Drought – Critical | Colorado Drought Monitor Map Walker Reservoir below 65% capacity 10% loss of production in alluvial wells |
20% Reduction in Use | Mandatory watering restrictions Operational modifications Limitations on new sod and filling swimming pools |
| Stage 4 – D4 | Exceptional Drought – Emergency | Colorado Drought Monitor Map Walker Reservoir below 35% capacity 30% loss of production in alluvial wells |
30% Reduction in Use | Limit new taps Mandatory restrictions on large irrigators such as golf courses Prohibition on ornamental water features |
Pinery Water’s Drought Stages 1 and 2 generally focus on awareness, education, and voluntary reductions. As conditions worsen into Drought Stages 3 and 4, restrictions become mandatory. Violations of drought response restrictions in these stages may incur fees. Per the 2026 Rates and Fees schedule, the first offense results in a warning, the second offense incurs a $75 fee, and third and subsequent offenses incur a $100 fee per offense.
We encourage all customers to be mindful of water usage, especially now. This includes reserving water for its best uses. For example, the health of trees in our community has many impacts so it is important to continue to water trees until directed otherwise. On the other hand, lawns require large amounts of water while providing little to no benefit to the environment. It’s best to avoid turning on your sprinkler system until late May (and possibly later if conditions warrant). If your trees aren’t in a separate irrigation zone, you may need to hand water them. Ready to get rid of some of your lawn for good? Apply for Pinery Water’s Turf Replacement Program! Information can be found here: Incentives and Rebates
Now is a great time to check your home for leaks. If you haven’t already, please sign up for EyeOnWater®. This FREE resource allows you to track your monthly, weekly, daily and even hourly water usage. You can even set custom leak alerts. Sign up here: Eye On Water Sign Up.
Pinery Water has sufficient water supplies to meet its customers’ needs, even in a drought, provided that we partner to use water wisely. Let’s all be part of the solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Pinery Water still offering conservation incentives and rebates?
Yes! The Turf Replacement Program is still running. Please navigate to Water Efficiency then Incentives and Rebates on the District’s website for more information and to apply. The Slow the Flow program is also still running. However, moving to Drought Stage 3 or 4 may either change or pause this program. Customers should sign up now if interested while understanding that timing may be altered by drought conditions. To read more about both these programs, click here: Incentives and Rebates.
2. Can I still water my trees, shrubs, and landscape?
Trees offer multiple benefits to the community and environment. Limited watering may be appropriate during extended dry periods to protect trees. During Drought Stages 1 and 2, customers are asked to voluntarily reduce outdoor water usage for the rest of their landscaping. Irrigate only two days per week on the days assigned to your address (see the Watering Schedule). A third day of watering is only necessary during extreme heat or lengthy dry periods. Unless hand watering, outdoor irrigation should always be scheduled after 6pm and before 10am. If you’d like to learn more about using outdoor water wisely, sign up for a FREE sprinkler evaluation from Resource Central at Resource Central-Sprinkler Evaluations.
3. What should I do if I see a leak?
If you see a leak in Pinery Water’s facilities (such as a hydrant or a broken water main), please report it immediately to (303) 841-2797. If it is after hours, press “9” to reach the after-hours emergency contact company. If the leak is on private property (such as a broken sprinkler head), notify the property owner or manager directly.
4. Can I expect mandatory restrictions?
Mandatory restrictions are one of the tools the Board may implement if we find ourselves in Stage 3 or beyond.
5. It rained or snowed. Why do I have to keep conserving water?
Local moisture such as rain or snow gives plants a short respite. However, it does not increase the District’s summer water supply.
6. How can I get more information?
Follow us on social media for updates! For specific questions, please reach out to Pinery Water staff by using the “Contact Us” option on the main web page, emailing us here, or calling (303) 841-2797.
Links to Pinery Water’s social media accounts: