FARMINGTON – Farmington residents are being asked to reduce water usage by 10% beginning Tuesday to help conserve water during drought conditions.

The water advisory was approved this week by Farmington City Council.

San Juan County is in an exceptional drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Georgette Allen, spokeswoman for the city, said Lake Farmington remains at nearly 100% capacity, but “low stream flows, combined with the prospect for continuing drought conditions and the lack of snowpack from last winter, prevents the city from replenishing the water supply.”

The city of Farmington draws its drinking water from Lake Farmington, which is supplied by surface water from the Animas and San Juan rivers.

Because of anticipated water shortages, the city is asking residents to voluntarily reduce water usage to lower demand on the system and preserve water.

One way residents can cut back usage is to reduce landscaping and lawn watering by 10%. They also should avoid using automated systems between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and not do any watering between noon and 4 p.m. The city recommends watering early in the morning to reduce excess evaporation and only when a lawn really needs it.

The city discourages residents from installing new landscaping that requires water, and if any new plant material is installed, only drought-resistant or low-water-use plants should be used, according to the city. Mulch can also help retain soil moisture.

The city also discourages washing hard surfaces like parking lots, driveways, sidewalks and patios.

“Restaurants should be encouraged to provide water to customers only upon request,” according to tips released by the city.

Additional tips and information can be found at fmtn.org/drought.

mmitchell@durangoherald.com