Creek levels are below normal as NYSDEC issued a drought warning for the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and New York City. A “warning” is the second of four levels of state drought advisories (“watch,” “warning,” “emergency” and “disaster”). Citizens are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water.  Municipalities, including New York City, depend upon the Catskill watersheds for drinking water, and the prolonged lack of rainfall has affected regional reservoir levels.

To conserve water resources, homeowners in regions under the drought warning are encouraged to voluntarily reduce water use and follow these tips:

• Wash cars less frequently.
• Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers or air conditioners to water plants.
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
• Fix leaking pipes, fixtures, toilets, hoses and faucets.
• Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry.
• Take shorter showers or fill the bathtub partly.
• Install water saving plumbing fixtures.
• Don’t run the tap to make water hot or cold.

Homeowners who rely upon wells are also advises to take precautions.