Due to the current Hatcher Reservoir level coupled with the San Juan river flows, Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District has entered Stage 2 Drought Restrictions per the 2026 Drought Management Plan. The National Integrated Drought Information System continues to show us in Severe Drought.
The goal of Stage 2 restrictions is to reduce District wide water use by 20 to 30 percent. Water rate tier multiplier will increase for residential users from 1.25 for flows above 5,000 gallons to 2.0 for flows above 4,000 gallons. The change in irrigation schedules takes place immediately, the increase in the rate tier multiplier will take place on June 29.
Stage 2 requirements are:
• Irrigation permitted only between 6pm to 9am based upon address. Odd numbered addresses may irrigate on odd numbered calendar days while even numbered addresses may irrigate on even numbered days.
• Irrigation is permitted Monday – Friday Only. Weekend watering is prohibited.
• Gardens (edible and ornamental) may be hand watered using a hose or drip irrigation.
• Restaurants shall serve water only upon the request of customers.
• Hotels encouraged to replace towels and bed linens for new guests and at the request of existing guests.
San Juan River Flows as measured at the USGS San Juan River gauge:
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. Alternating irrigation days by address reduces daily peak demands. Disallowing weekend irrigation reduces overall water consumption.
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/