kwch.com

The communities of Dodge City and Salina want residents to conserve water.

The city of Salina issued a "water watch" Friday. The city says the current dry and hot weather, combined with city and rural irrigation, has increased overall water use. Officials say that's led to a reduction in available water from the Smoky Hill River.

Salina officials say the capacity of public wells is stable, and the water table is seven feet above 2006 levels. The city says it must utilize both well and river sources to meet peak supply requirements.

With the watch the city heighten public awareness of water supply conditions and asks for voluntary reductions in water use. If conditions do not change, the city could later make mandatory restrictions.

The city of Dodge City is also urging water conservation because of low precipitation and high temperatures. A spokesperson for the city says water use has increased over the past couple of months, and they would like people to voluntarily reduce water usage.

Tips to conserve water:

• Adjust sprinklers so only the lawn is watered, not streets or sidewalks.
• Water lawns and gardens in the morning.
• When washing dishes or brushing teeth, don't let the water run.
• Run clothes and dishwashers only when they are full.