ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) — Watering restrictions during a certain time of day are starting up in Albuquerque, according to the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority. On April 1, sprinklers and/or spray irrigation will not be allowed from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. New easier to rea d PNM bills sent out soon This restriction will stay in-effect through Oct. 31. Customers using water outside of the cleared times could receive a fine. The water authority offered these tips for customers navigating the spring drought: "Troubleshoot your irrigation system at regular intervals, checking the aim on sprinkler heads and repairing leaks immediately Follow the Water by the Numbers program and adjust your watering schedule as the season changes: Two days per week in April and May, three days per week in the summer, and ramp down again in the fall Irrigate only when your plants need it and water them deeply rather than too frequently. Use a long screwdriver or soil probe to check soil moisture, and consider investing in a WaterSense-certified 'smart' irrigation controller (rebates are available) Use compost and mulch to increase moisture retentionand boost soil fertility Send your irrigation questions to askanexpect@abcwua.org and earn a $20 bill credit for attending an online Water Smart class (spaces limited; visit abcwua.org and click on CONSERVATION REBATES for more information)" Water waste can be reported by calling 842-WATR and choosing option 5. ...read more read less