Central Iowa Water Works asks for voluntary reduction in outdoor watering
May 27, 2026 | 5:52 pm ET
Description
High nitrate levels in drinking water sources like the North Raccoon River, shown here, are among reasons Central Iowa Water Works is calling for a voluntary 50% reduction in outdoor water use. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)
Central Iowa Water Works is encouraging central Iowa businesses and residents to reduce outdoor water use in response to high water demand, increased nitrate concentrations and operational strain on the regional water treatment system.
The water utility, which serves 20% of Iowans, issued a Stage II Water Alert, asking residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use by 50%.
The utility continues to meet federal and state drinking water requirements and its water treatment plants will remain open during the alert, according to a CIWW news release.
“Central Iowa continues to face significant water quality and operational challenges,” Tami Madsen, executive director of CIWW, said in a statement. “Additional conservation efforts are necessary to help reduce stress on the system and support reliable drinking water service for the region.”
In addition to limiting outdoor water use, CIWW encourages customers to inspect irrigation systems for leaks and check sprinkler heads for overspray.
CIWW also encourages residents to avoid outdoor water use on Mondays due to high demand, and adhere to the following water schedule:
- Even-numbered addresses: Sunday, Wednesday or Friday
- Odd-numbered addresses: Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday
The alert is part of CIWW’s Water Use Plan, created after a lawn watering ban issued in June 2025 due to high nitrate concentrations and staffing shortages at treatment plants.
Des Moines, IA
