Sterling adopts watering restrictions

STERLING –The Town of Sterling is taking steps to reduce its water usage amid a heat wave.

Starting July 19, officials asked residents whose addresses end in an even number to water their yards only on even-numbered days. People whose addresses end in an odd number may water on odd-numbered days.

For example, if a resident’s address ends in 125, he or she may water on odd-numbered days. But if someone’s address ends in 126, they may water on even-numbered days.

Town officials are encouraging residents to adopt these measures on watering day:

• Water between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., when water usage is lower and water is

less likely to evaporate.

• Concentrate on watering sensitive plants, trees and shrubs. Watering flowerbeds

and landscaping close to the house will also water the foundation.

The restrictions are designed to help the town limit water usage while the hot, dry weather continues, said Mayor Dale Winkle.

“Until this heat breaks and we get some more rain, we’ll probably keep them in effect,” he said.

Winkler said town officials may consider additional restrictions if water pressure drops because pumps can’t keep up with demand, or if the aquifer that supplies Sterling’s water gets too low.