DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN UPDATE April 1, 2025
With spring upon us and rainfall at a minimum during winter season, it is time to remind customers that the ground has not had ample opportunity to recharge. The result is a continued drought situation. The Board of Public Works has maintained a full reservoir despite the challenges presented.
The long-term search for an additional water source never ends. Active research with NRD mapping and test drilling is ongoing and with rain levels under average for five years, the recharge has been minimal. It has been determined that local options are unavailable, and the committee has now begun the process of reaching outside of the BPW area to find a supplemental water source for times when drought conditions exist.
BPW has been able to maintain the reservoir level of 22’. The customers have contributed to this stability, but if the water usage rises, it will be difficult to maintain. A drop in reservoir levels would require implementation of the short-term plan which includes trucking water into our system. This is costly and will affect rates if needed on a long term basis.
Stage 3 Drought Contingency Protocol is still in place. Non-essential water usage is necessary until the area receives enough rainfall to recharge our water sources.
The Board of Public Works continues working diligently to make sure water levels remain stable. We continue to provide data with daily readings on the number of gallons pumped, pumping times, and reservoir levels. This will keep the public informed of current conditions. See the City of Auburn website at https://auburn.ne.gov for updates.
If you have questions about the status of any of our activities, please contact the BPW and we are happy to provide you with statistics of rainfall, well levels and daily monitoring of the water pumped. All systems are actively monitored, and data is kept on file permanently. The reservoir holds 1.5 million gallons of water and has not dropped below the normal levels. This is due to the implementation of the plan and the collaboration of the members of the Auburn and Peru communities’ reduction in use.
We appreciate all efforts for conserving usage until levels return to normal.
Alan Slater
Water/Wastewater Manager
Daily water readings: April 1, 2025
