Bozeman, MT— The Bozeman City Commission will consider declaring a stage 1 drought in Bozeman at the City Commission meeting this Tuesday, July 13th.  This stage is defined as abnormally dry and calls for Bozeman community members to proactively reduce water use through voluntary water conservation efforts.

 
If the City Commission approves a Stage 1 Drought residents will be asked to do their part to help conserve water. During a Stage 1 Drought, the goal is to reduce total system-wide water usage by 10% and water conservation is encouraged but not mandatory. The City of Bozeman has a four-stage drought plan that can be implemented by the City to dictate water use guidelines during a City-declared drought event.

 
The City of Bozeman’s water supply sources include Hyalite Creek, Sourdough Creek, and Lyman Spring.  The City’s Water Conservation Division monitors for drought by tracking local data such as stream flow, reservoir volume, and snowpack, as well as national climate data.  Snowpack and streamflow levels in Bozeman’s municipal watershed are currently below normal.  These conditions, combined with an exceptionally hot and dry summer, are impacting the City’s water supply and resulting in significantly high water demand for this time of year due to increased landscape irrigation.

 
Water Conservation Manager Jessica Ahlstrom says, “Bozeman is a semi-arid climate and we have prepared for the possibility of a drought. The most important thing for folks to remember is that their small actions can, and do, make a difference.”
 
The Water Conservation Division asks that residents proactively take steps to conserve water. More information and tips on conservation and the latest updates on drought conditions are available on the City’s website.