Water Conservation

The City of White Bear Lake and many other communities depend on groundwater for their drinking water supply. Increasing demands on the water supply makes groundwater conservation and management a top priority. Reducing water use is critical for protecting the sustainability of the groundwater supply in the future.

Ordinance

The City of White Bear Lake established a water conservation ordinance within its jurisdiction under Section 401 Municipal Water System of the Municipal Code. The water conservation ordinance prohibits irrigation between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day from May 1 through September 30. This ordinance was adopted to help minimize water loss due to evaporation during the hottest part of the day.

Water Rates

The City is required by state law to implement a conservation rate structure or a uniform rate structure with a conservation program to encourage water conservation.

On March 1, 2016, the City implemented a seasonal water rate structure for all water utility users.  This new structure is intended to discourage non-essential water use, such as lawn irrigation, by charging more for additional water used during the summer months. Summer water use is targeted because the City experiences a sharp rise in groundwater pumping in the summer. This rise in water demand during the summer months is attributed to outdoor water use, with lawn watering being a major component.

Mayor's Water Challenge

Since 2013, the City has participated in the National Mayor's Challenge for Water Conservation and, with the help of our residents, placed 4th nationwide among cities within our population range its first year and in 2019 reached 2nd place.  This Challenge happens every April.

Other Resources

EPA - Water conservation tips
EPA - Water Sense labeled products
USGS - Groundwater information
Met Council - Water Conservation Toolbox
Met Council - Master water supply plan
U of M Extension - Water Saving Strategies for Home Lawns