The city of Russell is implementing tighter water restrictions because of the hot, dry weather.

In a special meeting Friday afternoon, council members voted to move from Stage 1 to Stage 3.

Water Production Superintendent Doug Langhofer reported the water pumps supplying Russell are near maximum load.

Stage 3 water restrictions limit residential outdoor watering to one day a week.  Outdoor watering is banned for parks, the Russell Golf Course and residential swimming pools.  Washing of motor vehicles or buildings is also prohibited.  Contractual water users must reduce consumption to 75 percent of average monthly use.