As Colorado and the American Southwest look ahead to lower reservoir levels and water supply challenges during the summer of 2026, Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District may be moving into Drought Stage 2 within the coming days or weeks.
The PAWSD Board of Directors authorized district staff to move into Stage 2 as conditions indicate. Stage 2 places additional limits and fees on water use and irrigation.
But for the time being, PAWSD remains in Drought Stage 1.
The goal of Stage 1 is to reduce water consumption throughout the District by 10 – 20%. Stage 1 low water use restrictions include: Irrigation is limited to 6pm – 9am. Gardens (e.g., edible and ornamental) may be hand watered using a hose or drip irrigation. Restaurants shall serve water only upon the request of customers. Hotels are encouraged to replace towels and bed linens for new guests and at the request of existing guests.
A water rate adjustment of 1.25 times the standard tier rate is in effect for residential usage of more than 5,000 gallons a month. This adjustment began on April 29, 2026.
There is no tier-rate adjustment or surcharge for commercial users or residential usage under 5,000 gallons per month at Stage 1.
From the PAWSD staff, as of Sunday, June 14:
Hatcher reservoir is dropping about 1/4” per day. Flow in the San Juan River continues to slowly drop; current flow is 136 cfs, compared to the median of 1,046 cfs. Last year’s flow on this date was 315 cfs. The National Integrated Drought Information System has continues to keep us in Severe Drought.
San Juan River Flows as measured at the USGS San Juan River gauge (USGS-09342500)
The District will remain in Drought Stage 1. Stage 1 limits irrigation between the hours of 6:00pm and 9:00am and a tier rate multiplier will be applied to flows above 5,000 gallons of water per billing cycle for residential users.
In our area, it’s most effective to irrigate between evening and early morning because the cooler, calmer conditions allow water to soak into the soil instead of being lost to the sun and wind. During the day, high temperatures, low humidity, and frequent afternoon winds drive up evapotranspiration, meaning much of the sprayed water evaporates or drifts away before it can benefit plants. By irrigating from about 6pm to 9am, more water reaches the root zone, coverage is more uniform, and plants are better able to absorb moisture, making the process both more efficient and healthier for vegetation.
The District greatly appreciates everyone’s continued diligence in conserving water. If you have any questions regarding the current Drought Management Plan, it can be found on the website at https://www.pawsd.org/water-service/water-conservation/