Drought Conditions in the Pinery
Drought Stage 3 and Mandatory Restrictions begin May 1st - Updated on 4/24/2026The Pinery Water and Wastewater District Board has declared Stage 3 Drought as of May 1, 2026.
A dry and warm winter led to record-low snowpack. Low snowpack results in low spring and summer surface water flows, which impacts the quantity of water available to the District. A lack of precipitation and unseasonably warm temperatures persist across the Front Range. Looking ahead to the summer months, the District has determined that a reduction in water use is necessary to protect water supply reliability.
In 2022, the Board approved a Drought Response Plan. 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 *CURRENT* |
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 |
As noted in the table above, the Colorado Drought Monitor map is a trigger point for Pinery Water’s drought stage. The map is updated each Thursday and can be accessed here: Drought Monitor Map
Now that the District has entered Stage 3, restrictions are mandatory. Violations of drought response restrictions 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.
All customer classes are being asked to reduce demand by 20%. Customers must adhere to the Mandatory Watering Schedule, as shown below. For residential customers, each address is given two days to water, although the hand-watering of trees, shrubs and potted plants is allowed on any day. Irrigation (including hand-watering) must occur before 10:00am or after 6:00pm. Water waste (such as runoff onto sidewalks or streets) is always prohibited. It is highly recommended that customers wait until mid- to late May to turn on their sprinkler systems. Until then, continue to hand-water trees and shrubs.
If you’re interested in removing some of your lawn, apply for Pinery Water’s Turf Replacement Program. Information can be found here: Incentives and Rebates.
Under Stage 3, customers may not fill/re-fill private swimming pools or install any new sod. District staff are also making operational changes to conserve water. Adjustments to annual hydrant flushing operations were discussed in the April 2026 Pinery Pipeline newsletter.
Water conservation isn’t limited to outdoors. 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: EyeOnWater Sign Up. Then visit this EPA webpage for additional information on how to save water indoors: EPA-Water Sense.
By acting now, we can protect our water supplies and reduce the chance of a stricter drought stage later. 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. 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. While we recommend waiting to turn on your sprinkler systems until mid- to late May, hand-watering trees and shrubs may be necessary during extended dry periods. Once you do turn on your irrigation system, remember to set the clock to adhere to the mandatory watering schedule. 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. To report other leaks or water waste to District staff, please use our Report Water Waste Form.
4. 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.
5. 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: