The first step has been initiated in Ames’ drought management plan Friday as the city of Ames pumps water from Ada Hayden Heritage Park into the South Skunk River Channel, according to a news release from the city of Ames.

According to the release, “Rainfall on Wednesday evening did little to restore stream flow to the South Skunk River, said John Dunn, [director of Water and Pollution Control.] By pumping from the upstream lake into the river channel, the pool behind the dam can be maintained.

“The city of Ames has not implemented any mandatory restrictions on the use of treated drinking water but strongly encourages conservation be practiced by all residents.”