Manti reports high June culinary water use; springs producing below typical levels

Public works director Corey Hask told the Manti City Council on July 15 that June 2026 culinary water use totaled 26,500,000 gallons and that the city was on pace for roughly 27,400,000 gallons in July.

Hask said spring production is down this dry year and described current spring output at roughly 700–800 gallons per minute without the city's Sister Spring in service; he noted the division of drinking water had given the city permission to use Sister Spring but that turning it on during monsoon season can introduce dirty water into the system. Hask said the city had used its well sparingly to top off storage (about 15,000 gallons added during a recent event) and emphasized conservation measures, warning residents they should not become complacent despite recent reductions in some accounts.

Hask identified the largest users in town (farms, turkey farms, city facilities including the cemetery, sports complex, pool, schools and churches) and said the city has been strategic about watering public grounds for events. He also reported the city had run the well recently to top off the tank and described monitoring of Big Spring, which has not historically presented problems and has been kept online when feasible.

Why it matters: the reported monthly usage numbers underline increased demand during peak summer months and a dry spring season that has reduced natural spring production; these conditions factor into utility planning, emergency response and potential rate discussions.

Next steps: staff said they will continue monitoring springs and system operations, consider targeted use of wells and consult with regional towns about drought responses; the planned utility rate study by RCAC was mentioned as a step to address water department deficits.