Ongoing water shortages at Grand Canyon National Park have led to orders that concessionaires use disposable dishes, alter their menus to use less water in food prep and dish washing, and that water in restaurants only be served at request. Additionally, a ban against the sale of water in disposable bottles has been lifted.
The restrictions took effect at 8 a.m. Thursday as the park moved to implement mandatory Level 2 water conservation measures due to diminished water resources.
Mandatory water conservation includes not watering lawns/plants or washing cars; filling the sink with water while washing dishes; reporting drips, leaks or other water loss to appropriate offices; turning off the water while you shave or brush your teeth; running dishwashers or washing machines with only full loads or in 'eco' mode if available; and taking shorter showers. All visitors and residents must implement water conservation measures immediately in homes, hotel rooms, and at the campgrounds, a park release said. The public can call 928-638-7688 to listen to a recorded message with updates and additional information.
A break in the park's Transcanyon Pipeline is currently under repair. Additionally, a water pump at Indian Garden remains inoperable; the combination of these situations has contributed to the diminished water resources and resulted in mandatory water conservation guidelines for all consumers on the South Rim. The North Rim is unaffected by these issues.
Due to the Transcanyon Pipeline break, there is no water available at Cottonwood Campground or Manzanita Rest Area. Day hikers and backpackers should be prepared to carry all drinking water or be able to filter or treat creek water for drinking purposes. Phantom Ranch is operating under water conservation measures. No water is available at Bright Angel Campground or Boat Beach.
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