Odessa to impose water-use restrictions

ODESSA, Texas (AP) - Odessa city officials have announced tougher water-use restrictions to cope with reduced water deliveries by the Colorado River Municipal Water District.

The Odessa American reports voluntary restrictions will begin March 1 before becoming mandatory April 1.

Mayor Larry Melton says outdoor watering will be limited to two hours a week between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tuesdays for even-numbered addresses and between 6 and 10 p.m. Thursdays for odd-numbered addresses.

Hand watering, drip irrigation and soaker hoses will be permitted, but hose-end sprinklers and open-ended hoses will be banned. Fountains will be prohibited, and a ban on personal vehicle washing will remain in place.

This comes after the water district announced that it will reduce summer water deliveries because of the ongoing drought and depleted reservoirs.