New operating hours for Austin splash pads began Sept. 11 and last until the end of the season Oct. 31 to lessen water use during the drought.

With the exception of the Pease Park and Liz Carpenter splash pads, the new hours of operation will be:

• Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m.-8 p.m.
• Saturdays through Sundays from 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

The Aquatic Division of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department announced the new hours to help conserve water amid a drought. All of Travis County is in an "exceptional" drought, according to the U.S. drought monitor. This summer, the county experienced high temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Splash pad systems are recirculated, resulting in minimal loss of water. However, evaporation can occur, especially in extreme heat, a parks and recreation department spokesperson said. With school back in session, the use of splash pads has decreased, and the department is conserving water during those hours as well.

The season was extended through Oct. 31 this year by the department due to high temperatures.

For more information on Austin splash pads, visit www.austintexas.gov/pools-splashpads.