For the first time in nearly a month, nitrate levels in both the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers have dipped below the threshold that Central Iowa Water Works says it needs to sustain if it is to lift a first-ever ban on lawn watering for its 600,000 customers. Meanwhile, some violators are receiving fines or even having their water cut off. CIWW member utilities have strained since late April to maintain that level in their finished water as nitrate levels soared, and the agency imposed the watering ban June 12 to ensure seasonal demand wouldn't outpace treatment capacity. The restriction remains in effect for now, CIWW leaders said at a press briefing Tuesday. Tap the link in our bio for more on this story. #DesMoines #Iowa #nitrate #water #drinkingwater