Officials with Harlan Municipal Utilities (HMU) report a voluntary water conservation “Water Watch” that began April 26, is no longer in effect. As of today (Friday, June 11, 2021), HMU has moved to a “Tier 1 – Water Warning” where restrictions are no longer voluntary. Harlan Municipal Utilities says they have a limited capacity, and from time to time during and following drought conditions or due to equipment failure, HMU’s water supply may become significantly and seriously depleted such that there is an insufficient supply of water to meet all customary and usual demands. Part of the water conservation policy is to ensure that there is an adequate supply of water to meet demand for fire protection.

The following is a summary of the “Tier 1 – Water Warning” procedures and the next stages (if needed)….

Water Warning – Tier I. Under a Tier I Water Warning, no customer shall use potable processed water of the HMU water utility in any manner contrary to the following:

A. No potable watering of lawns, shrubs, trees, flower or vegetable gardens (except as in B. listed below)

B. Watering or irrigation of vegetable gardens, trees and shrubs less than four (4) years old and new seedlings is permitted once per week.

C. Vehicle/equipment washing is prohibited except in commercial establishments that provide a washing service (eg. Commercial car wash).

D. No potable water shall be used to fill private swimming pools, children’s wading pools, reflecting pools or any other structure that can be used to house water for recreation use.

E. No potable water shall be used to wash streets, parking lots, driveways, sidewalks or building exteriors.

F. Racetracks shall not use potable water for dust control on racetrack.

G. No potable water shall be used for cleaning of equipment, machinery, or interior spaces.

H. Water shall be served at restaurants only upon the request of the customer.

I. Customers with facilities for tank loading water sales may be curtailed or eliminated.

J. No potable water shall be used for recreational or leisure water use, including sporting complexes and golf courses. Drinking fountains and restrooms will remain open.

K. All use of fire hydrant meters are prohibited.

L. Interruptible customers have been notified of the need to reduce average daily water usage by 25% and make all attempts to use water only during the hours of 8:00 pm through 8:00 am. If non-compliant, please see surcharges.

Water Warning – Tier II. Under a Tier II Water Warning, Water Warning Tier 1 use restrictions will be in effect and no person shall use potable processed water of the municipal water service in any manner contrary to the following:

A. All outside water use, except for sanitation, and fire is prohibited.

B. Water use not necessary for the preservation of life or the general welfare of the community is prohibited.

C. Commercial vehicle washing facilities can operate on even days of the month only.

D. Interruptible customers have been notified of the need to reduce average daily water usage by 50% and make all attempts to use water only during the hours of 8:00 pm through 8:00 am. If non-compliant, please see surcharges in full policy.

E. Customers with facilities for tank loading water sales will be curtailed or eliminated.

4. Water Emergency. Under a Water Emergency, Water Warning Tier II use restrictions will be in effect and, in addition, each customer will be afforded a monthly allocation of water.

A. Interruptible customers have been notified services will be shut-off with a minimum 24-hour notice.

B. Vehicle/Equipment washing is prohibited at all locations including commercial vehicle washing facilities.

C. Customers with facilities for tank loading water sales will be eliminated at all locations.

Please note: a usage allocation along with penalties will be added to your bill if we reach the “Water Emergency” level.

To review Water Policy No. 6 in its entirety please see www.harlannet.com (or use the following link: http://www.harlannet.com/Bid_Documents_Public_Notice.htm).  Officials note: Water reclaimed or recycled after some other primary use, such as water that has been used for washing or cooling, may be used without restriction. Additionally, water derived from sources other than HMU’s water utility, such as water condensed from the atmosphere by air conditioners or collected from rain or snow, or private wells, may be used without restriction.

If you have any questions please call 755-5182.