Tim Wescott wrote:

I don't pay much attention to the weather reports, because I live
within the Columbia Gorge Unpredictability Zone. If I can see Mt.
Hood, it's going to rain. If I can't see Mt. Hood, it's raining.

Tim: My guess is that you have a problem in believing in the
existence of any water shortages?

Stu

Given that our little 7-household water system runs out every summer,
and we have to change to a well with so much iron in it I'm not sure if
I should bathe in it or smelt it down?

No.

Sounds like you need to build a rainwater catchment system.