By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The hours restricting outdoor water in Hays will end September 30.
Since June 1, city ordinance has prohibited outdoor watering between the hours of noon and 7 p.m. The restriction also applies to private water wells.
That's the hottest time of day when evaporation rates are highest, according to Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist.
"However if the weather should turn warm and windy as it often does in October, it's highly encouraged to water landscape plants including turf grass if necessary," Dickman said. "Do this early in the morning or late at night to make most efficient use of the water resource."
As the weather moves into cooler nights and shorter days, Dickman said "the need for supplemental irrigation is greatly reduced, so always be sure to check the soil moisture first before turning on the irrigation system or garden hose."
Other water conservation measures remain in place year round and prohibit the following:
* The washing down of hard surfaces, such as sidewalks, parking lots and driveways, is not allowed.
* The known loss of water through breaks or leaks in plumbing systems.
* The escape of water from private property onto public property, such as sidewalks or into street guttering from landscape irrigation.
More information about water conservation programs in Hays is available on Water Resources Department web site.