The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection declared a drought watch Thursday night for the whole state, including Montgomery County.
State officials are asking all residents to voluntarily conserve water until conditions improve.
The Department of Environmental Protection makes recommendations for drought watch, warning, or emergency declarations based on stream flow, groundwater level, precipitation, and soil moisture. When these four indicators are out of normal range for three to 12 months, the DEP will make a declaration.
“Although this week has brought some welcome rain to much of the state, it’s not enough to make up for the lack of rainfall this spring, following a winter that brought little snowfall in many areas,” said DEP Acting Secretary Rich Negrin.
“As a result, we’re seeing lowered stream flows, dropping groundwater levels, and persistent precipitation deficits. Water conservation, always a good practice, is especially helpful now as it’ll lessen potential future impacts on water supplies if rainfall continues to be scant this summer.”
Residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce their nonessential water use by five to 10 percent.
Here are some tips for using less water:
• Run the dishwasher and washing machine less often, and only with full loads.
• Don’t let the faucet run while brushing your teeth or shaving and take shorter showers.
• Water your lawn only if necessary. Don’t water your lawn on windy and hot days.
• When mowing your lawn, set the blades 2-3 inches high. Longer grass shades the soil, improving moisture retention.
• Water your garden less often. If necessary, water only in the cooler evening or morning hours.
• Skip the car washing.
• Sweep your sidewalk, deck, or driveway, instead of hosing it off.
• Check for and repair household leaks which can lead to a waste of water.
Read more about the drought at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
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Teach kids about conserving water.
