DELAWARE COUNTY, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation declared a drought watch in 15 counties across the state, including Delaware County.
Due to a significant shortage of rainfall and declining levels of streamflow and ground water, the DEC is encouraging residents in affected counties to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.
“Recent unseasonably warm weather and lack of precipitation have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in some downstate areas being put under drought watch. Local water restrictions and educating residents about how to help conserve our water resources are crucial steps to help prevent a more severe shortage until conditions improve,” said DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar.
A watch is the first of four levels of State drought advisories, which are watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a watch.
Other affected counties include Bronx, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester Counties.