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Rockland Residents and Businesses Urged to Reduce Water Usage Amid Stage I Drought

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1 year ago

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The County of Rockland is urging residents and businesses to take immediate steps to reduce water usage following a Drought Watch issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for much of the state.

Although rain may be in the forecast, precipitation levels during August and September have remained significantly below seasonal averages, contributing to low streamflows in key waterways, including the Ramapo River. These conditions have triggered a Stage I Drought in Rockland County, prompting voluntary water conservation measures to help preserve the local water supply.

“We’re asking everyone in the community — homeowners, renters, and business owners — to take simple but meaningful steps to conserve water during this period,” said local officials.

Recommended Water Conservation Measures

Residents are strongly encouraged to adopt the following practices:

  • Avoid unnecessary outdoor water use. Limit activities such as car washing, power-washing surfaces, and irrigating lawns.

  • Reuse collected water from rain barrels, dehumidifiers, or air conditioning units for watering plants and gardens.

  • Mow less frequently. Allowing lawns to grow longer reduces the need for watering.

  • Refrain from hosing down sidewalks or driveways. Use brooms or blowers instead.

  • Take shorter showers and avoid filling bathtubs completely.

  • Repair leaks. Fix dripping faucets, running toilets, and leaking garden hoses promptly.

  • Upgrade to efficient fixtures. Install EPA WaterSense and ENERGY STAR® certified plumbing and landscaping equipment to reduce water use indoors and outdoors.

Why Conservation Matters Now

The DEC’s Drought Watch is the first of four levels in the state’s drought response framework and signals the need for public awareness and voluntary action. While a Stage I designation does not impose mandatory restrictions, officials warn that continued dry conditions could escalate conservation requirements if water supply levels decline further.

Stay Informed and Take Action

Residents seeking more information on how to conserve water at home or in the workplace are encouraged to visit the New York State DEC website for detailed tips and resources:
www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5011.html

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Domestic Violence Can Take Many Forms — Here’s Where to Get Help

Published

2 weeks ago

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October 4, 2026

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Domestic Violence Can Take Many Forms: Resources Are Available

Domestic violence is not limited to physical or sexual abuse. It can also include psychological and emotional abuse, threats, intimidation, manipulation, and economic coercion.

Abusers may use a variety of tactics to frighten, manipulate, isolate, blame or harm victims as a way of maintaining power and control.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or abuse, help is available. You are not alone.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Domestic Violence Resources

Rockland County Center for Safety and Change
Hotline: 845-634-3344
Website: centerforsafetyandchange.org

The Center for Safety and Change provides support and resources for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and other forms of abuse.

New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
Hotline: 1-800-942-6906
Website: opdv.ny.gov

The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence provides information, assistance and resources related to domestic violence throughout New York.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Website: thehotline.org

The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential support, information and resources for people experiencing domestic violence, as well as friends and family members seeking guidance.

If you or someone you know is being abused, reaching out for help can be an important first step. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, call 911.

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Government

Rockland County Residents Urged to Check for Water Leaks

Published

2 weeks ago

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September 28, 2026

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A simple home water audit can help residents find hidden leaks, reduce water waste and lower household utility bills.

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — The Rockland County Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to conduct a simple home water audit to identify hidden leaks, improve water efficiency, reduce utility costs and help protect the county’s long-term water resources.

While homeowners often focus on conserving water outdoors during the summer, indoor water use can account for a significant portion of a household’s overall water consumption. Small leaks, aging plumbing fixtures and inefficient appliances can waste thousands of gallons of water each year without being noticed.

A home water audit can help residents identify where water is being wasted and find opportunities to conserve.

Four Simple Ways to Check Your Home

The Water Advisory Council recommends that residents start by:

  • Checking the water meter: Make sure no water is being used in the home, then check the meter. Movement may indicate a hidden leak.
  • Testing toilets for leaks: Use dye tablets to check for silent toilet leaks that may otherwise go unnoticed.
  • Upgrading plumbing fixtures: Consider replacing older fixtures with WaterSense®-labeled products, which are designed to use less water while maintaining performance.
  • Inspecting irrigation systems: Check outdoor irrigation equipment for leaks, broken sprinkler heads and other problems that can waste hundreds of gallons of water during the summer.

Free Water Conservation Resources Available

Rockland County residents can also access resources designed to make water conservation easier.

Residents can visit EPA WaterSense for information about saving water at home and use educational materials available through the Rockland County Water Hero program.

Rebates are also available through Veolia for qualifying WaterSense® products. Eligible products may include select toilets, showerheads, clothes washers, irrigation controllers and rain barrels.

The Water Advisory Council is also offering free water conservation tools, including:

  • Shower timers
  • Toilet leak-detection tablets
  • Moisture meters

Supplies are limited. Residents can pick up the tools at the Water Advisory Council office, find them at community events, or request them by signing up to become an H2O Hero through the Rockland Water Hero program. Visit Rockland Water Hero

The Rockland County Water Conservation Project is funded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

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