Water Use Plan: Frequently Asked Questions

The Water Use Plan is designed to ensure a reliable supply of drinking water that meets all safe drinking water standards for our community. It helps manage water use, so homes and businesses receive consistent pressure, high-quality water and uninterrupted service. The plan is activated during times of high demand or when water supply is limited in situations such as drought, water quality challenges, or equipment issues at water production facilities. 

A copy of the Water Use Plan can be found on the Central Iowa Water Works (CIWW) website at: https://ciww.gov/water-use-plan/

CIWW and its member agencies will notify the public of any changes to Water Use Plan stages through websites, social media, news media, press releases, and other communication channels as appropriate. Each stage is identified by a color-coded alert system to make updates easy to understand.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed by visiting www.ciww.gov and following CIWW on Facebook and LinkedIn for the latest information on current water use conditions, conservation recommendations, and any required actions.

Each stage remains in place only as long as it is needed to protect the drinking water supply and ensure reliable service. The duration of each stage depends on factors such as weather, customer water demand, and any challenges affecting supply, including drought, water quality challenges or equipment issues at water production facilities.

Water production experts review conditions daily and provide guidance to the Technical Committee and Board of Trustees on when to start, adjust, or end each stage as conditions change. 

The Water Use plan can be implemented in response to both water supply and water quality challenges. Its purpose is to guide decisions on how we manage water use, so homes and businesses continue to receive reliable service, consistent pressure, and high-quality drinking water that meets all safety standards.

In times of water quality challenges, such as elevated nitrate concentrations or other contaminants in our source waters, the plan may be implemented. Our water treatment process uses several steps to make water safe to drink. When the quality of the source water declines, we may need to adjust or add treatment steps to remove contaminants so that we continue providing clean, reliable water that meets all state and federal standards. 

During a drought, the plan helps us ensure there is enough water available to meet customer needs. It outlines steps to reduce nonessential water uses such as lawn watering. 

Lawn watering is one of the largest uses of drinking water during the spring and summer and is generally considered a discretionary use. On hot, dry days, outdoor irrigation can significantly increase overall water demand across the region.

Reducing lawn watering is one of the quickest and most effective ways to lower water use while still ensuring water remains available for essential needs such as drinking, cooking, sanitation, healthcare, and public safety such as firefighting. Even small reductions in outdoor watering can make a meaningful difference in managing regional water demand.

Indoor water use is generally not restricted during the early stages of the Water Use Plan. However, everyone can help conserve water by using it wisely every day. Simple actions such as fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, turning off the tap when not in use, and running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines can make a difference.

During Stages III and IV of the Water Use Plan, reducing unnecessary indoor water use becomes increasingly important to help ensure water remains available for essential public health and safety needs such as firefighting.

The Water Use Plan is designed to respond to changing conditions in a measured and practical way. Early stages focus on voluntary conservation, providing residents and businesses information on current water supply conditions and information on how to reduce water use before mandatory measures become necessary.

If voluntary conservation efforts are not sufficient to maintain reliable water service, protect water quality, or manage system capacity, additional restrictions may be implemented. This phased approach helps minimize disruptions while ensuring the region has the water it needs for essential daily activities, public health, and safety such as firefighting activities.

Water Use Plan stages are temporary and are intended to remain in effect only as long as necessary. As water supply conditions, treatment capacity, and customer demand improve, CIWW may reduce the alert stage or return to normal operations.

Any changes will be communicated through the same channels used to announce the Water Use Plan, including websites, social media, news media, and other public notifications. Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed by visiting www.ciww.gov and following CIWW on Facebook and LinkedIn for the latest information on current water use conditions, conservation recommendations, and any required actions.

The goal is always to return to normal water use as soon as conditions allow while maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for the region.

How are we going to avoid having to activate the Water Use Plan in the future?

Water conservation is an important tool for protecting a reliable drinking water supply for everyone. By using water wisely both outdoors and indoors, we can help reduce strain on the system, especially during periods of high demand or limited supply. Outdoor conservation practices may include irrigating only when needed, choosing drought-tolerant landscaping, and using smart irrigation technology. Indoors, simple actions such as fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, turning off the tap when not in use, and running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines can make a meaningful difference.

While we aim to minimize activation of the Water Use Plan, it remains an important safeguard. The plan provides clear actions to help prevent low pressure, maintain water quality, and avoid service interruptions when conditions are challenging.

Central Iowa Water Works’ 12 member agencies bring extensive experience in managing water supply and water quality issues, including drought and elevated nitrate levels. At the same time, significant investments are underway to strengthen and expand the system to improve long-term resiliency.

These efforts include expanding the Saylorville Water Treatment Plant, advancing plans to expand the Grimes Water Treatment Plant, and planning a new water treatment facility in Dallas County. Additional nitrate removal and treatment capacity is also being evaluated at the Fleur Drive Treatment Plant. 

Learn more about CIWW through our resource library at: https://ciww.gov/media-toolkit/

Monday has historically been the most demanding day on the water treatment system since many people are returning to regular routines such as laundry, showers, and business operations. Lawn watering adds usage to the system that can create a spike in demand. Skipping Monday spreads water use more evenly throughout the week, which helps keep the system running reliably for everyone. 

Addresses ending in an even number water on: Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday

Addresses ending in an odd number water on: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday

Watering should be avoiding on Monday. 

Soil moisture should be monitored as most lawns do not need to be watered all three days of the even/odd schedule. 

Learn more about lawn health and watering on the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Website: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns

How much water can be saved by limiting or stopping lawn watering?

A. Outdoor watering – especially for lawns – can use up to 40 percent of the drinking water system’s capacity. Reducing or pausing lawn watering can significantly lower demand and help protect the available water supply. 

Learn more about saving water outdoors at the EPA Water Sense Website: https://www.epa/gov/watersense/outdoors

Irrigation in a Homeowners Association (HOA) operates on a larger scale than a single home since they may water shared spaces, such as entrances, parks, and common areas. Because these systems are typically managed by a board or contractor and use more water, they can be harder to adjust quickly. Since HOA irrigation can have a big impact on overall water demand, planning for efficient water is especially important for protecting the regional water supply. 

Learn more about how HOAs can save water outdoors at the EPA Water Sense Website https://www.epa.gov/watersense/get-started

What are some simple ways I can reduce water use?

There are many simple ways to conserve water at home while lowering your utility bill. Consider fixing leaks promptly, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, and running dishwashers and washing machines only when they are full. Keeping drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap to cool it and avoiding unnecessary rinsing can also help save water.

Regular home maintenance can prevent water waste before it becomes a problem. As part of seasonal home care, inspect faucets, toilets, irrigation systems, and other water-using fixtures for leaks or signs of wear. Even small leaks can waste significant amounts of water over time.

Many affordable water leak and flow detection devices are available and can send alerts directly to your smartphone if unusual water use is detected. These devices can provide early warning of problems such as a leaking fixture or a toilet that continues to run after flushing, helping to prevent water waste, property damage, and unexpected utility costs.

Every gallon saved helps reduce demand on the regional water system and supports a reliable water supply for the entire community.

Learn more about saving water indoors at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Water Sense Website: https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving

Avoid filling pools during a watering ban. If filling is necessary for a new pool liner, fill slowly and only between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to reduce strain on the water system.

Could bulk water filling stations be in operation during a full lawn watering ban?

Bulk water filling stations typically remain open during a lawn watering ban. Decisions regarding the operation of these stations are made by the individual CIWW member agency that owns or operates the facility. 

Customers should contact the operating agency directly for information about station availability, hours of operation, permitted uses, and any restrictions that may be in place.

Can I still water my flower garden, flowerpots, and vegetable garden if the Water Use Plan is in effect?

Yes. However, they should be watered by hand using a hose or watering can and only with the minimum amount of water needed to keep plants healthy.

Choosing native plans for your garden helps too because these species are more suited to weathering drought and our hot summers. 

Learn more about rainscaping from The Rain Campaign: https://raincampaign.org/rainscaping-practices/

Yes. Conservation measures in the Water Use Plan apply to all customers. When voluntary conservation measures or mandatory restrictions are implemented, all users are encouraged or required to do their part to help reduce water demand and protect the region’s water supply.

A shared commitment to conservation helps ensure water remains available for essential public health, safety, and community needs.

Golf courses that use municipal water may continue limited irrigation when the Water Use Plan is in effect or during a lawn watering ban, using only the minimum amount necessary to maintain plant health and safe playing conditions. Many courses in the region rely on wells or on-site ponds for irrigation and do not use municipal water.

Most professional car wash facilities recycle water by collecting, filtering, and reusing it. This process is more water-efficient than handwashing a vehicle or watering a lawn with an automatic sprinkler. 

Yes. Hydrant meters may continue to be used for permitted and essential activities. Their use is limited to services that are allowed under the Water Use Plan to help ensure water is used responsibly while maintaining necessary operations.

Turf that is being grown on a farm can be watered with the least amount of water possible to maintain plant health.

Website:https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns#seed

Yes. Sod and seed installation may continue during a lawn watering ban. Irrigation is allowed for sod, newly seeded lawns, and erosion control vegetation (stabilization plantings) installed during the current calendar year. During the establishment period, watering for such lawns must be limited to the minimum amount necessary as prescribed by the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. To ensure proper root development, watering must be limited to before 6 a.m. and after 10 p.m. to reduce evaporation and conserve water. Overseeding is not considered a newly seeded lawn during a lawn watering ban. 

Learn more about irrigating sod at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Website: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns#sod

If I have a newly sodded area, how should it be watered?

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recommends watering new sod once or twice a day for the first 7 to 10 days, applying enough water to keep the sod and the top inch of soil moist. Sod typically roots within 10 days. At this point, gradually reduce how often you water while increasing the depth of watering. After the sod has been mowed 3 or 4 times, a deep watering once a week is sufficient.

Learn more about irrigating sod at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Website: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns#sod

If I have a newly seeded area, how should it be watered?

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recommends keeping the top inch of soil moist after seeding with frequent, light watering. Watering lightly twice a day is usually sufficient. You may need to water three or four times during hot, windy or sunny days. Most turfgrass seeds should germinate in two to three weeks if the soil remains evenly moist. Once grass seedlings reach 1 to 2 inches, gradually reduce how often you water while increasing the depth of watering.

Learn more about irrigating newly seeded areas at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Website:https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns#seed

Your drinking water continues to meet all safe drinking water standards. The Water Use Plan is in place to help manage customer demand and ensure reliable service.

If drinking water were to exceed the federal safety standard for nitrate (10 milligrams per liter), a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” would be issued to notify the public right away.

A public notice called a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” would be issued to alert customers of a violation. This notice is required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. 

The notice instructs customers not to give drinking water to infants, as infants under six months of age can become seriously ill from methemoglobinemia, also called “blue baby syndrome.” It advises not to boil water, since excessive boiling can increase nitrate concentrations. The notice explains that adults and children older than six months may continue to drink the tap water, as nitrate is primarily a concern for infants who cannot process nitrates in the same way adults can. However, individuals who are pregnant, breast feeding, or have health concerns may wish to consult with their healthcare provider or county health department if they have any concerns. 

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

The Safe Drinking Water Act is a federal law, passed in 1974, that protects public health by ensuring the safety of the nation’s drinking water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates drinking water contaminants in public water supplies. 

Under this law, EPA follows a science-based process to identify potential contaminants, determine whether regulation is needed, and establish health-based standards. Water systems are required to regularly test their water, treat it as needed, and report results to demonstrate compliance.

EPA reviews and updates standards at least every six years to reflect the latest science and maintain strong protection for public health.

Learn more about the Safe Drinking Water Act and the process of setting standards on the EPA website: https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/how-epa-regulates-drinking-water-contaminants

Learn more about the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Drinking Water Program on the IDNR website: https://www.iowadnr.gov/environmental-protection/water-quality/drinking-water

At-home water tests can vary in quality, accuracy, and how results are reported. Even when used correctly, they may not match laboratory testing used by water utilities.

A common reason for this is how nitrate is measured and reported. Some home test kits report nitrate (NO₃), while drinking water standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are based on nitrate as nitrogen (NO₃-N). These are related but not the same.

If you have questions about your results or want more precise testing, consider contacting your water provider or using a certified laboratory.

Learn more about the Iowa State Hygienic Laboratory by following this link: https://shl.uiowa.edu/overview

Learn more about the current water quality at our plants and in our source water by following this link: https://ciww.gov/current-and-historical-source-water-quality-data-where-to-find-it/

Water with nitrate levels exceeding 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) can cause methemoglobinemia, also called “blue baby syndrome,” in infants under six months of age. 

Infants under six months of age are the primary population at risk, although preventative measures are also encouraged for pregnant individuals, those who are breast feeding, and other high-risk people.

Learn more about methemoglobinemia, also called “blue baby syndrome,” by following this link:https://hhs.iowa.gov/health-prevention/providers-professionals/center-acute-disease-epidemiology/epi-manual/environmental-disease/methemoglobinemia

No. If your drinking water meets all state and federal standards, it can be used as you normally would for drinking, cooking, and everyday activities. If your water exceeds the safe drinking water standard of 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate, a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” will be issued. The notice would instruct customers not to use tap water or prepare juice or formula with the water to infants, as infants under six months of age can become seriously ill from methemoglobinemia, also called “blue baby syndrome.” 

The notice would explain that adults and children older than six months may continue to drink the tap water, as nitrate is primarily a concern for infants who cannot process nitrates in the same way adults can. However, individuals who are pregnant, breast feeding, or have health concerns may wish to consult with their healthcare provider or county health department if you have any concerns. 

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

If your drinking water meets all state and federal standards, it can be used as you normally would for drinking, cooking, and everyday activities. There is no need to boil it.

If your water exceeds the safe drinking water standard of 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate, a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” will be issued. This would include a notice with the following language:

“Do not boil the water. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. Excessive boiling can make the nitrate more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when water evaporates.” 

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

EPA drinking water standards and health guidance are designed to protect human health and do not include specific recommendations for pets. Individuals who have concerns about their pet’s health, should consult their veterinarian for guidance.

If your drinking water meets all state and federal standards, it can be used as you normally would for drinking, cooking, and everyday activities.

If your water exceeds the safe drinking water standard of 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate, a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” will be issued. 

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

If your drinking water meets all state and federal standards, it can be used as you normally would for drinking, cooking, and everyday activities.

If you are pregnant, breast feeding, or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult with your healthcare provider or county health department. 

If your water exceeds the safe drinking water standard of 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate, a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” will be issued.

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

If you are pregnant, breast feeding, or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult with your healthcare provider or county health department to discuss your specific condition. 

If your water exceeds the safe drinking water standard of 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate, a “Nitrate MCL Exceedance Notice” will be issued.

An example of this notice can be found on the EPA Website: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/documents/pn_nitrate_mcl.pdf

Most nitrate exposure occurs through drinking water or food, not skin contact. Activities like showering, bathing, or washing dishes are considered low risk.

More information about these activities can be found by following this link: https://www.epa.gov/mn/it-safe-shower-or-bathe-water-if-it-over-nitrate-mcl-10-mgl?utm_source

Most nitrate exposure occurs through drinking water or food, not skin contact. Activities like showering, bathing, or washing dishes are considered low risk.

More information about these activities can be found by following this link: https://www.epa.gov/mn/it-safe-shower-or-bathe-water-if-it-over-nitrate-mcl-10-mgl?utm_source

If your drinking water meets all state and federal standards, it can be used as you normally would for drinking, cooking, and everyday activities. 

If nitrate levels are above the standard, it is recommended that infants, pregnant individuals, those who are breast feeding, and other sensitive populations avoid ingesting the water while brushing their teeth. 

Choosing to install a home filtration system is a personal decision. If you purchase one, carefully review the product information to ensure it addresses your specific concern and that it is certified by NSF International (www.nsf.org), UL Solution (www.ul.com), or a similar reputable testing organization. It’s important to operate and maintain any home filtration system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Improper use or lack of maintenance can lead to plumbing corrosion and can negatively impact water quality. 

Additional information on home water filtration systems can be found here: 

WaterSense Guide to Selecting Water Treatment Systems: https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-11/ws-products-home-water-treatment-guide_508.pdf

CDC About Choosing Home Water Filters: https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/prevention/about-choosing-home-water-filters.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/home-water-treatment/water-filters.html

Your water service provider is the utility, city, or water district that supplies your water and issues your bill. You can find their contact information on your water bill.

For a list of participating member agencies and links to their websites, visit the CIWW Founding Entities web page at: https://www.ciww.gov/founding-entities

Dallas County Public Health: https://www.dallascountyiowa.gov/504/Public-Health

Madison County Public Health: https://madisoncounty.iowa.gov/offices/public-health/

Polk County Public Health: https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/health-department/

Warren County Public Health: https://www.warrencountyia.gov/government/public-safety/health-services/

Online: https://ciww.gov/contact/

Email: info@ciww.gov

Phone: 515-412-9124