Nestled on the hilly shoreline of one of the world's largest freshwater lakes, the city of Duluth is asking residents and businesses to conserve water until Thursday night.

The call from City Hall is necessary, officials said Tuesday evening, because crews are mending several water main breaks around town and conducting needed maintenance on a water transmission line that is a main feeder to all parts of the city of 86,000 residents.

"Water service will not be interrupted, but the system could be strained if there is high demand from customers during these repairs," read the statement from the officials, whose city sits on the western edge of one of the world's five largest freshwater lakes, whether by volume or surface area.

In particular, the statement continued, use of washing machines, dishwashers and hot tubs should be put off during this conservation period. Also, skip watering lawns, city officials added.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482