Currently, the City of Menomonie and approximately 66% percent of Wisconsin is experiencing an “abnormally dry” (National Integrated Drought Information System, 2023) season due to the lack of rainfall. Given our lack of rain, hot weather, and increased irrigation during the summer, the City of Menomonie encourages all residents/businesses to follow the City’s alternate-side irrigation restrictions which went into effect on June 1.
“It is important for people to help the community preserve water because it is our most precious natural resource.” -Mayor Randy L. Knaack
Following the alternate-side irrigation restriction will help the City maintain sufficient supply of water in our elevated storage tanks to supply water to all residents and businesses within Menomonie and maintain firefighting capabilities.
“An adequate water supply in in the elevated storage towers is critical for our ability to respond to fires. We can use lake water delivered by tenders, but it severely slows our response time and effectiveness.” -Chief Dennis Klass
The community’s cooperation with the alternate-side irrigation restrictions will help us avoid a watering ban should we enter a categorized draught and/or our water supplies run too low to maintain basic services. If current mitigation efforts fail, the City of Menomonie may consider implementing an irrigation ban with penalties to preserve water supplies.
Alternate-side Irrigation Restriction Rules
Properties with even numbered street addresses (i.e., 620 11th Avenue West) may only irrigate turf grass areas on even number days (i.e., June 2, June 4, June 6, and so on). Properties with odd numbered street addresses (i.e., 621 11th Avenue West) may only irrigate turf grass areas on odd number days (i.e., June 1, June 3, June 5, and so on).
Questions regarding alternate-side restrictions should be directed to David Schofield, Director of Public Works, at 715-232-2221 extension 1020 or dschofield@menomonie-wi.gov.
See this previous post about the city's alternate side irrigation requirement.
