MENOMONIE – The City of Menomonie Water System has experienced low water pressure, particularly at the higher elevation portions of the City, due to extreme water demands in the current hot and dry weather. City staff are taking steps to restore full pressure to the system.

The City’s water system consists of three municipal wells and three elevated water towers. A fourth municipal well is under construction but will not be completed until early 2028. While the elevated water towers store water, they also create the water pressure needed to deliver reliable service throughout the community. When water levels become too low, system pressure begins to decline. This can reduce available water for firefighting and, if pressure drops significantly, portions of the water system can lose water service.

Communities throughout Wisconsin and across the country experience increased water demand during extended periods of hot, dry weather. In Menomonie, lawn irrigation, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours when many automatic sprinkler systems operate, can outpace the City’s ability to refill its elevated water towers before the next day’s peak water use.

In March 2026, the City enacted alternate side irrigation restrictions. These restrictions have, unfortunately, not been sufficient to maintain water levels in the elevated towers.

The City has now declared a full lawn irrigation ban, effective immediately, and running through August 1, 2026. The City will issue reminders to residents and businesses who continue irrigating lawns during the full lawn irrigation ban. If lawn irrigation continues after reminders, the City can issue civil forfeitures of up to $150 per day.

Updates regarding the City’s response to this Low Pressure event will be shared through the City’s website, social media channels, and other official communication platforms.

Residents or businesses with questions regarding the full lawn irrigation ban may contact David Schofield, Director of Public Works, at 715-232-2221 ext. 1020 or [email protected]

Complete City of Menomonie Press Release