An aerial view of the new pipeline break located along the North Kaibab Trail, August 20, 2024, Grand Canyon National Park / NPS file
Just a month ago, Grand Canyon National Park implemented water conservation measures due to a pump failure at Havasupai Gardens. Now, a new break in the Transcanyon Waterline has prompted more water restrictions and conservation measures on the South Rim, effective immediately. This recent waterline break has also impelled the North Rim to initiate preliminary water conservation measures. Until park staff repair the break and water in storage tanks reaches sustainable levels, the park will remain in conservation mode.
If you plan to visit this national park in Arizona, you should be aware of the additional water restrictions / operational changes taking effect:
- Camper Services operated by Delaware North will be closed.
- Water spigots in Mather Campground and at Desert View Campground will be turned off.
- Additional water conservation measures while visiting the park.
In addition to the new changes, all existing conservation measures remain in place for the North and South Rim. Under existing water restrictions, park staff and partners have been able to conserve water by serving water by request only, adopting low water-use methods to clean hotel rooms, and practicing basic water conservation measures at home and work.
Residents and visitors can help conserve water by doing such simple things as limiting showers to five minutes or less, turning the faucet off while shaving or brushing teeth, selectively flushing the toilet, washing laundry with full loads, and reporting leaks to appropriate offices.
Hikers in the backcountry should plan to carry all their water or methods to treat water. For the most updated information on water availability in the backcountry visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates page.
