High demand and low water supplies are spurring the City of Helena to implement mandatory water restrictions earlier than normal.
Residents have used a record amount of water this June, according to city officials. At the same time, Montana is experiencing extreme drought.
As of July 1, Helena residents and businesses who use the city’s treated water will be required to follow mandatory lawn watering and irrigation restrictions for homes and businesses.
Residents with odd-numbered addresses will only be able to water on odd-numbered days, and vice versa with even-numbered addresses. Watering is only allowed in the mornings before 11 a.m. and at night after 5 p.m.
The restrictions are scheduled to remain in effect until Sept. 1.
Water usage has already been cut at city parks and facilities, including those that use well water, like Kindrick Legion Field and Bill Roberts Golf Course.
