Mount Lemmon water restrictions expected to last at least another month

Mount Lemmon is expected to remain under Stage 3 water restrictions for at least another month as its water supply continues to recover. The restrictions began earlier this month after water levels fell below half capacity.

The Mount Lemmon Water Improvement District said the springs were producing about 3.5 gallons per minute when Stage 3 began. Under normal conditions, they provide about 18 to 24 gallons per minute to fill the district’s tanks.

Recent monsoon storms have not brought enough rain near the summit to recharge the aquifer that feeds the springs. Officials say several weeks of steady rainfall will be needed before the restrictions can be eased.

The district is also preparing to install a new 800,000-gallon tank. The added storage is intended to help during dry periods and reduce the risk of entering Stage 4 restrictions. Residents and visitors are being asked to continue conserving water.