Three Douglas County water providers are urging residents to conserve water as the region emerges from a warm, dry winter that has strained water resources.

Castle Rock Water, Highlands Ranch Water and Parker Water & Sanitation asked customers to use water wisely and avoid unnecessary waste as irrigation season approaches, according to a joint news release issued this week.

“We want residents to be mindful of how and when they use water, especially outdoors,” Castle Rock Water Director Mark Marlowe said in the release. “Simple steps like checking your irrigation system for leaks or watering only when your landscapes need it can help prevent unnecessary waste.”

As of March 17, more than 85% of Douglas County residents are affected by drought, with 25% of the county under severe drought and 60% under moderate drought conditions, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System. This was the fourth driest February on record over the past 132 years in the county, according to NIDIS.

Outdoor watering typically accounts for the largest increase in water use in Douglas County during the spring and summer months, making conservation an important step residents can take to protect water resources, the release said.

The three districts rely on different water sources, have varying storage capacities and operate under unique local demands, leaving them with different sensitivities to drought. Still, officials agreed that conservation is a key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of water for their communities.

“Water is always a valuable resource in Colorado, and dry conditions like we are experiencing this winter make conservation even more important,” Highlands Ranch Water General Manager Sam Calkins said in the release. “Small actions, like waiting to turn on your irrigation system until mid-May, can make a big difference.”

As spring approaches, the providers recommend residents prepare their irrigation systems and follow efficient watering practices, including learning local outdoor watering rules, taking advantage of rebates offered by water providers and checking sprinkler systems for leaks or broken heads before starting summer irrigation.

“Using water wisely is something we can all practice every year,” said Ron Redd, manager of Parker Water and Sanitation District. “Being aware of conditions and using water responsibly helps protect this vital resource for all of us.”

Residents can find conservation tips, drought stages and water-use guidelines on their provider’s website:

• Castle Rock Water: CRgov.com/Water
• Highlands Ranch Water: HighlandsRanchWater.org
• Parker Water: pwsd.org