Water Department

The Water Department is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City's water system to ensure uninterrupted distribution of water.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets safe drinking water standards and the Minnesota Deaprtment of Health monitors compliance.  Each year, cities are required to publish a Drinking Water Report, which can be found on the link to the left.  

Water Hardness and Iron Level.  The City water hardness is 21-24 grains; iron level is .92.  Although Mound's hardness level is below the state mandated level, many residents choose to install a water softener to mitigate calcium and magnesium deposits that can build up in pipes and contribute to reduced water flow and inefficient operation of water using appliances.

Water Conservation Tips.  Use mulch around trees, shrubs and flowers to retain soil moisture.  Sweep driveways and sidewalks with a broom rather than hosing them down. Repair leaky taps and toilets (a dripping faucet can waste 15 to 20 gallons of water a day).  Please help us avoid a water shortage. During a typical hot summer day, Mound's water consumption rises to 1 to 3 million gallons each day, as compared to 1/2 to 1 million gallons each day in the winter.

Water used by residential customers ranges from watering lawns and gardens to showering and tooth brushing.  The Metropolitan Council's Water Conservation Toolbox includes information and an extensive list of resources for residents who want to use their water efficiently.

Sprinkling Restrictions.  From May 15 to September 1 of each year, an odd/even lawn sprinkling regulation is in effect for all lawn sprinkling systems supplied by water from the City.  Properties with even-numbered addresses may sprinkle lawns only on days with even-numbered dates.  Properties with odd-numbered addresses may sprinkle only on days with odd-numbered dates.  A one-month exception from the odd/even sprinkling restriction may be granted for newly planted sod, grass or landscaping upon registering for exemption and recommendation of the City.  Other exemptions may be granted upon evaluation and recommendation of the City.   If there is a declared water shortage or water pressure emergency, all sprinkling and watering will be prohibited.  Public notice will be given if such an emergency is declared.

Sprinkle lawns early in the morning or in the evening.  Don't sprinkle lawns from noon to 6 p.m. when as much as 75 percent of the water evaporates.  Water trees and gardens with a hose or soaker hose rather than with a sprinkler.  The City offers deduct meters for a fee for properties that use outside water.   The outside water is metered so that sanitary sewer charges won't be applied for that portion of the water consumption.  Deduct meters are required for all new builds.