JACKSON, Wyo. — In response to the emergency ordinance limiting irrigation this summer, the Town of Jackson shared its most recent water usage report during the Town Council meeting on Monday, Aug. 4.
The ordinance, which was put into place to prioritize water availability for domestic/household use and fire suppression, is scheduled to end on October 31.
Town Manager Tyler Sinclair told Town Council that data during the last two weeks of July has shown the public’s willingness to implement water conservation measures. Town reported that overall daily water usage in Water Supply Zone 3 has gradually reduced from 2,500 gallons per minute (GPM) on July 18, to 2,000 GPM on July 21. According to Town Engineer Brian Lenz, Zone 1 includes East Jackson, Zone 2 encompasses downtown Jackson and Zone 3 encompasses the area between Virginian Lane and Gregory Lane.
“I think people need to continue doing what they are doing,” Sinclair said. “We are very pleased at where we are at, but we are still in an emergency situation.”
Town of Jackson Director of External Affairs Susan Scarlata shared with Town Council that the emergency ordinance will remain unchanged, unless water usage spikes back up, which would cause stricter enforcement. Scarlata said that residents and businesses must continue to reduce irrigation by one of three ways: only water every other day; water on even or odd dates; or decrease seasonal system settings by 50%. She noted that staff will continue to observe and learn about water usage levels in Teton County in “real time.”
Mayor Arne Jorgensen told Buckrail that community water usage will continue to be monitored by Town staff for the weeks ahead.
“We are continuing to trend in the right direction,” Jorgensen said. “We are meeting our goals and that is because people are taking action. We are not done. We need to continue to work to meet our goals and that takes all of our efforts.”
Jorgensen emphasized that once the emergency ordinance is over, there will be the opportunity for the community to shift into a more in-depth discussion about water conservation in the valley.
According to the Town, last week’s Chat with Council, which focused on mandatory water restrictions, was well-attended by the community. To continue the ongoing dialogue, another Chat with Council will discuss the topic “Mandatory Water Restrictions In Effect” on Monday, Aug. 11, from 12 to 1 p.m. The meeting will take place in Town Hall or online via Zoom.
During the informal chat, Jorgensen, Sinclair and Councilwoman Devon Viehman will discuss the current water restrictions. Community members are also welcome to share input, ask questions and engage in the discussion.
