Posted October 13, 2026

Have you ever imagined what life would be like without water for just one day? No water for drinking, cooking, showering, flushing toilets or washing clothes. Restaurants, schools, hospitals and businesses would struggle to operate, and firefighters would face challenges protecting our communities.

Imagine a Day Without Water, observed on Thursday, October 15, is a national campaign that highlights the essential role water plays in our daily lives and the importance of maintaining reliable water systems.

Colorado continues to face severe drought conditions following historically low snowpack and limited water supplies. Denver Water has prohibited lawn watering and all spray irrigation beginning October 1, 2026, until further notice. Reservoir levels remain below average, making water conservation more important than ever. 

According to Denver Water’s October 12, 2026, update, its reservoirs were just 67% full, compared with an average of 90% for this time of year.

Even when temperatures cool and outdoor watering decreases, the drought does not simply disappear. Reservoirs need sufficient snowpack and spring runoff to recover, and that recovery may take more than one season.

While we can’t control how much snow or rain we receive, we can control how we use the water available to us.

• Follow current watering restrictions. Lawn watering and spray irrigation are prohibited under Denver Water’s current drought rules.
• Protect trees and plants. During dry periods, trees, shrubs and gardens may still be watered using a hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle or a low-volume, non-spray irrigation method, such as drip irrigation.
• Use water wisely indoors. Take shorter showers, turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, and run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
• Fix leaks promptly. A dripping faucet or leaking toilet can waste water over time.
• Rethink your landscape. Consider water-wise plants and ColoradoScape landscaping options that are better suited to Colorado’s dry climate.

This October 15, take a moment to appreciate the water that makes our daily routines possible. Every drop counts, and every effort to conserve water helps protect this essential resource for future generations.