GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — The combination of a break in the Trans-Canyon Pipeline and only one operable pump at the Indian Garden pump house resulted in diminished water resources last week at Grand Canyon National Park. The break in the pipeline was repaired on Friday, and the South Rim storage tanks are refilling. As of Thursday, water restrictions have been scaled back to basic conservation measures.
These measures include:
- turning off the water while you shave or brush your teeth
- running dishwashers or washing machines with only full loads and in “eco” mode if available
- taking shorter showers
- not washing vehicles
- filling the sink with water while washing dishes
- reporting drips, leaks or other water loss to appropriate offices
Through diligent water conservation efforts during the last week, the park and its concessioners successfully reduced water consumption by over 10 percent each day.
While the park operated in Level 2 water restrictions, the park temporarily lifted the ban on bottled water sales. The ban is back in place; however, park stores will continue to sell out the remaining bottled water they have in stock. Park stores also continue to sell reusable water bottles, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own bottles to use at the free water bottle filling stations.
Drinking water is available at all inner canyon water stations along the Bright Angel and North Kaibab Trails and at Phantom Ranch.
Pipeline breaks can occur at any time, and all hikers should be prepared to treat or filter their water if necessary. More information is available on the Grand Canyon National Park Plan Your Visit web page.
The National Park Service encourages all visitors to practice basic water conservation measures at home and during their travels. For more tips on how to conserve water, visit the National Park Service website.
The public can call 928-638-7688 to listen to a recorded message with updates and additional information.
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Twitter: @STGnews
So, from the article text, I gather the Park usually has a ban on bottled water sales? Interesting…Are they concerned about thousands of plastic bottles ending up in the ‘ditch’, or did I miss something?