WATER CONSERVATION

North Star does not have a current policy that dictates mandated restrictions. In leu of these policies, our year-round rate schedule is structured with conservation initiatives built in. The price per 1,000 gallons increases as the total amount of water used/billed increases.

North Star maintains and operates a raw water reservoir with a 16.6 million-gallon capacity. Water is pumped out  of the Animas River (our source water) to this reservoir on a weekly basis, typically off- peak hours for reduced electrical cost. Our standard operational procedures are to maintain this reservoir at its maximum capacity. Daily production for the month of June reflects an ability to operate approximately 54 days if we were unable to replenish that capacity. Our diversion point on the Animas River is located where we are able to pumpeven with lower flows on the river. Obviously durng extreme low levels this may not be the case. Lake Nighthorse was constructed as a backup for just such possibilities. Entity members of the San Juan Water Commission will be meeting this week discussing logistic concerns on if, and when a release out of Lake Nighthorse is required. 

North Star wants to encourge each and every one of its members to be conscientios of your water consumption. Feel free to reach out to the office with concerns of higher-than-normal usage. North Star staff can assist in identifying possible leaks. Leaks that nt only effect the size of your bill, but the hemorrhaging of vital assets. In this case, power and chemical cost as well as the water itself.  Updates on this matter will be posted on our website.  northstar.myruralwater.com

Nate Yarbro, General Manager