TTAWA — A new state law requires rural water districts to be a part of the state Dig-Safe program. If you plan to trench or dig you’re supposed to call the Dig-Safe number of 811 and learn where utility, telephone and water lines are buried within two days.
State Senator Pat Apple says there’s more work to be done and the state will be working to ensure water districts comply with the law. The state was one of the last to require water districts to be a part of the 811 registry. Apple said some rural water districts are small and it’s difficult for them to respond in a timely manner and some districts don’t know where all of their water lines are. He spoke at a recent state municipal utilities meeting in Ottawa. Utilities, excavators and homeowners are required to call 811 before they start digging or trenching.
