HULL, Iowa (KTIV) -
As the summer takes a sweltering turn, people are looking for any way to keep cool.
That may be harder to do in Hull, Iowa, where water is a pretty precious commodity.
"See this is what I find when I actually browse through here." For gardeners, like Lee De Groot, caring for her vegetable garden, is her pride and joy.
"We have a large family so we do a lot of gardening so that we can have a fresh produce," said De Groot.
But, since June 26th, residents of Hull have been under a "Water Emergency Restriction." That means no unnecessary water use.
Local lawns and gardens have to go without. So far, that's not a problem for De Groot.
"We have an underground well that we put a pump into and we hook it up to our hose and into our sprinkler and we're able to water our garden," De Groot said.
But, not everyone in this town of just over 2,000 is so lucky.
"A big part of the restriction centered around the irrigation of lawns, people here are very proud, they take good care of their residences," said Les Van Roekel.
Leaving green lawns to burn.
"We are starting to see the lawns turn to the yellow,we hope that within a couple weeks we can lift this ban and get back to full usage," Van Roekel said.
The mild winter gets part of the blame. You see, the city counts on snow melt to replenish the city wells.
Add to that a shortage of rural water, and a growing population, and the city's pushing people to turn off the tap.
City officials are also asking residents of Hull to limit small chores using water, such as washing your car.
So, detailing your vehicle in the driveway is out. But, the ordinance doesn't prohibit cleaning your car at a commercial car wash.
Either way, it's an adjustment for everyone.
"My kids have often played on the trampoline with the sprinkler going, they have not done that since the restriction has been put on," De Groot said.
And with more hot days in the forecast, people in this community have turned to a higher power.
"We're hoping that it rains soon. That's what we pray for," said De Groot.
The "water emergency restriction" is in effect until further notice.
