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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has extended a drought watch to include Columbia, Greene, Dutchess, and Ulster counties. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the expansion, which now covers 50 counties across the state, after consulting with the State Drought Management Task Force and federal agencies. Residents in these areas, especially those relying on private groundwater wells, are urged to conserve water in the coming weeks.
The drought watch comes in response to below-normal precipitation, low stream flows, and declining groundwater levels observed over the past several months. While no mandatory water restrictions are in place, the state encourages voluntary conservation efforts. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of safeguarding water supplies and taking simple steps to conserve water. "The dry conditions experienced by many regions throughout the summer are continuing into September," she said, according to Daily Freeman.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton noted the significance of the drought watch, stating that the agency will continue to monitor conditions and collaborate with partners to ensure public safety. The drought watch is the first level of state drought advisories, which include watch, warning, emergency, and disaster levels. Local water suppliers are encouraged to assess their situations and promote conservation.
For more information on water conservation, residents can visit the DEC's Water Use & Conservation webpage.