DPR Implements Water Reduction Strategy During Stage 1 Drought

DPR Implements Water Reduction Strategy During Stage 1 Drought

Published on June 03, 2026

Denver Parks and Recreation (DPR) is implementing a systemwide water reduction strategy in response to Denver Water's 2026 Stage 1 drought declaration.

As Denver Water's largest single consumer, DPR will reduce irrigation water use by 20% during the irrigation season while continuing to prioritize public health, recreation and long-term landscape sustainability across Denver's parks, golf courses, and public spaces.

"Denver's parks and recreation system is one of the city's most important public resources, and we're committed to balancing responsible water conservation with maintaining safe, healthy and accessible community spaces," said DPR Executive Director, Jolon Clark. "The investments DPR has made in smart irrigation technology and water-efficient landscape practices over the last several years has helped us prepare for conditions like these."

Because DPR sites span many acres, it isn't feasible to irrigate all landscaped areas within the same limited watering windows required for smaller properties. This flexibility helps maintain safe, functional public spaces while supporting systemwide conservation and protecting the reliability of Denver Water's supply during drought conditions. Under Denver Water's Water Budget Program, DPR properties are managed under a systemwide water allotment rather than standard residential watering schedules. Irrigation strategies will vary depending on park infrastructure, community use, and available water sources.

"We're fortunate to have partners like Denver Parks and Recreation who understand the importance of helping us stretch our storage supplies this summer by saving more water," said Greg Fisher, Greg Fisher, Denver Water's manager of demand planning and efficiency. "Denver Parks developed a thoughtful and strategic plan that allows them to reduce overall water use by 20%, while being able to prioritize maintaining public spaces for the benefit of the entire community."

Approximately 30% of DPR properties, including City Park Golf Course, are irrigated with recycled water, which is not subject to Stage 1 drought restrictions because more water is available in that system during a drought.

DPR's water reduction efforts include:

• Prioritizing irrigation for trees and high-value landscapes

• Reducing irrigation in passive turf areas and medians

• Continuing operations at pools, splashpads and athletic fields

• Turning off decorative fountains during the 2026 season

• Using smart irrigation technology to improve efficiency and reduce waste

Protecting Denver's urban tree canopy remains a top priority throughout the drought response.

"Trees provide critical shade, cooling and environmental benefits for Denver residents," said City Forester, Luke Killoran. "We encourage residents to continue watering trees on their property and in the public right-of-way to support the long-term health of our urban forest."

As part of the required reductions, residents may notice some turf areas appearing brown or dry, particularly in low-use passive areas. DPR staff will continue monitoring landscapes throughout the season to protect long-term plant health and recovery.

Residents who observe broken sprinkler heads or irrigation leaks in parks are encouraged to visit denvergov.org to submit a report or start a chat with Sunny.

More information, including frequently asked questions and drought response updates, is available on denvergov.org/parks.

• Parks & Recreation