In response to water shortages resulting from the extremely dry winter of 2025/26, the Town of Vail has implemented an outdoor water use reduction plan for the summer of 2026.

Approved by the Vail Town Council on June 2, the purpose of the plan is to help keep as much water as possible in Gore Creek and the Eagle River, thereby protecting riparian and wetland habitat, fish, insects and other wildlife. In addition, reducing outdoor water use will help ensure adequate domestic water supply for residents and guests. 

The Eagle River Water & Sanitation District has declared a water shortage which enacted Stage III water restrictions.  These restrictions limit outdoor landscape watering to two-days per week, a 33% watering reduction from a normal three-day per week schedule. Review the ERWSD water shortage response plan.

The town has identified a variety of ways in which to reduce outdoor water use and keep water in Gore Creek. Signs will be placed in areas where water will be conserved this summer. 

Note: Vail's water reduction plan is based on current conditions and could change as water levels in Gore Creek drop. Please check back throughout the summer for updates.

Our Goal

To work with our partners on town-owned lands to exceed the ERWSD goal of reducing 33% outdoor water use while still hosting long-standing summer events, providing some level of public amenity and protecting important assets.