One of the things that makes Mount Lemmon so special is also one of its greatest challenges.
Unlike Tucson and many surrounding communities, Mount Lemmon doesn’t receive water from the Colorado River or a large municipal water system. The mountain relies on a limited supply of spring-fed water collected and managed by the Mount Lemmon Domestic Water Improvement District. It’s a precious resource that depends largely on winter snowfall, seasonal rainfall, and natural groundwater recharge.
This summer, after below-average precipitation and increased seasonal demand, the Water District implemented Stage 3 water conservation measures to help protect the community’s water supply. These restrictions ask residents and businesses to reduce water usage while preserving enough supply for essential needs.
Mount Lemmon Lodge Remains Open
The good news is that Mount Lemmon Lodge and our cabin rentals remain fully open and ready to welcome guests.
While the restrictions don’t change the experience of staying on the mountain, they do remind all of us that every drop truly matters. By making a few small adjustments during your visit, you’ll help ensure that this incredible mountain destination remains sustainable for everyone who lives, works, and vacations here.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Mount Lemmon Lodge, caring for the mountain isn’t something we do only during drought conditions…it’s part of how we’ve always operated.
We’ve implemented numerous sustainability initiatives designed to reduce our environmental footprint while providing a comfortable guest experience. Our water conservation efforts include:
- Sending laundry off the mountain to reduce local water consumption.
- Installing water-efficient plumbing fixtures where practical.
- Monitoring and minimizing unnecessary water use throughout our properties
- Asking guests not to take excessibly long showers and signing a pledge upon arrival indicating they will help with the conservation efforts.
- We are continuing to evaluate new ways to conserve this valuable resource.
These efforts are part of our broader commitment to protecting the natural beauty that makes Mount Lemmon such a remarkable place to visit.
How Guests Can Help
The collective impact of many small actions can make a significant difference. During your stay, we encourage you to:
- Take shorter showers.
- Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Reuse towels for multiple days when possible.
- Report any dripping faucets or leaking fixtures to our staff.
- Use only the water you need.
These simple habits help conserve thousands of gallons of water over the course of a busy summer season.
Working Together
The current Stage 3 restrictions are a reminder that life on Mount Lemmon is different from life in the valley below. Our mountain community depends on a limited natural water supply, making conservation a shared responsibility.
We appreciate every guest who joins us in protecting this extraordinary place. By working together, we can help preserve Mount Lemmon’s forests, wildlife, and welcoming mountain community for generations to come.
Thank you for doing your part…and, thank you for choosing Mount Lemmon Lodge.
