New York State is encouraging all residents, including those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.
A drought watch or warning is in effect for the entire state except for New York City and Westchester County. Drought conditions in this region are determined by New York City in close coordination with State Department of Environmental Conservation. There are four levels of State drought advisories: watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. There are no mandatory State restrictions under a drought watch or warning. A warning declaration is a notice of impending and imminent severe drought conditions and includes increasing public awareness and voluntary water conservation. Public water supply purveyors and industries are urged to continue to implement local drought contingency plans.
DEC Amanda Lefton said, “We encourage everyone to do their part to conserve water while we face these drier than normal conditions. The small amount of rain we received recently is not enough to overcome larger water deficits in many areas. Being more careful with water use now can prevent greater effects on our water resources. Whether it’s taking a shorter shower, not watering the lawn, or other smart reduction efforts, we can all do our part to conserve water.”…