RAPID CITY, S.D – Rapid City residents will need to continue conserving water through the end of the year as city officials extend watering restrictions due to ongoing drought conditions and low inflows into Pactola Reservoir.
The City recently elevated Pactola’s status from “concern” to “alert,” citing significantly below-average water inflows throughout the summer. Officials say the decision is based on the amount of water entering the reservoir, not the amount currently stored. Pactola still contains more than 40,000 acre-feet of water.
Under the restrictions, no outdoor watering is allowed between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered calendar days, while even-numbered addresses may water on even-numbered days. No outdoor watering is permitted on the 31st day of any month.
Manual watering with a handheld hose, bucket, watering can, or similar container remains allowed.
Rapid City implemented conservation measures in late March, earlier than normal, after a winter with little snowpack and reduced runoff into the reservoir. City officials say the restrictions will remain in place until water supply conditions improve.
For additional information, residents can contact the Rapid City Water Office.
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