ALBANY, N.Y. – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has declared adrought watch for15New Yorkcounties because of a significant shortage of rainfall and declining levels of streamflow and ground water. Following the declaration, DEC briefed the State Drought Management Task Force and federal partner agencies.New York State is encouraging residents in affectedcounties, particularly those dependent onprivategroundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.