Water Demand High in Branson - Cliff Sain

Water demand high in Branson
By Cliff Sain
BDN Staff Writer

The city of Branson says it recently had two days of water usage among the three highest in history.

On July 23, the city's two water plants and the city's wells produced 6.19 million gallons of water, the second highest day in city history. On July 31, the city produced 6.05 million gallons, the third highest. The highest was 6.2 million on Aug. 17, 2003, according to the city.

Most of the city's water comes from Lake Taneycomo, but during busy times, its wells act as a supplement.

"We run the wells during peak times, usually on weekends and usually between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.," said public works division head Mike Ray.

City officials say they have been able to provide plenty of water, despite a dry summer. The city performs weekly echo-soundings of each city well, and those tests indicate the water levels are in good shape and not fluctuating.

"Lake Taneycomo provides Branson with a more long-term, dependable source of water than dependence on wells," Public Works Director Larry VanGilder said. "When demand for water is high, like it was during the two peak days in July, city wells supplement that water supply. If demand were to continue at that level and drought conditions persisted, the wells would have to run day and night to keep up, causing wear and tear on the pumps and lowering the water table."

Officials said the city can produce more than 10 million gallons of water per day.

However, just because there is plenty of water, that's not a reason to waste it. City Environmental Specialist Debbie Redford recommended that residents avoid watering during the middle of the day, and to check for water drips and leaks. Even turning off the water while brushing your teeth or shave can save five gallons of water each time you stand at the sink, Redford said.