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Monmouth County is among the state’s regions being asked to voluntarily conserve water consumption.

The Department of Environmental Protection [DEP] issued a drought watch Wednesday for the northeast, central and coastal north regions.

DEP Commissioner Bob Martin said a drought watch was prompted by continued rainfall deficits that have decreased reservoir, ground water and streamflow levels in these regions. Additionally, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center projects above-average temperatures and dry weather through October.

“We have been carefully tracking precipitation, stream flows, and ground water and reservoir levels since the spring and over the course of the very dry summer,” Martin said. “While it is not uncommon to see reduced stream flows and ground water levels by the end of the summer season, we are beginning to observe signs of stress in our water supply indicators, and this warrants closer scrutiny and public cooperation.”

The three affected drought regions include all or parts of the following 12 counties: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset and Union.

Locally, Manasquan Reservoir is showing signs of stress from the dry weather and high water demands. While there was sufficient rainfall in June, very dry, warm weather in July and August resulted in high water usage that has continued into September, Martin said.

“We are asking residents to be aware of the situation and use water more carefully and deliberatively, especially when it comes to lawn watering and other non-essential uses,” Martin said. “The goal is to moderate water demand through voluntary conservation.”

Suggested water conservation tips include:

• Do not over-water lawns and landscaping — two times per week for 30 minutes in morning or late evening typically is sufficient. Use a hose with a hand-held nozzle to water flowers and shrubs.

• Avoid watering lawns and plants during the heat of the day, as this promotes evaporation and water waste.

• Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.

• Save water at home by fixing leaky faucets and pipes.

• Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth and shaving.

• Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.

For more drought information, visit:  www.njdrought.org/status.html

For more water conservation, visit:  www.njdrought.org/ideas.html

[Featured photo courtesy of Monmouth County Park System]

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