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

Published

5 months 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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Government

$16 Million Route 304 Repaving Project Set for Rockland County

Published

3 days ago

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March 7, 2026

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NANUET, NY — A long-awaited repaving project along State Route 304 is scheduled to begin this spring, bringing a $16 million infrastructure investment to Rockland County.

New York State Senator Bill Weber announced the project alongside Clarkstown Town Supervisor George Hoehmann, members of the Clarkstown Town Board, and Rockland County Legislator Will Kennelly.

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) confirmed that crews will mill and resurface Route 304 from the pavement joint south of West Nyack Road to U.S. Route 9W.

Construction is expected to begin during the spring 2026 construction season. Most of the work will take place overnight to reduce disruptions for drivers and nearby businesses.

“For years, residents have raised concerns about the poor condition of Route 304,” Weber said. “Potholes, uneven pavement, and safety issues have been a constant complaint. I’m pleased to see this $16 million investment moving forward and relief on the way for the thousands of drivers who use this road every day.”

According to Weber, his office began advocating for improvements to the roadway several years ago after hearing concerns from residents and local officials. He said the project reflects continued engagement with state transportation officials to secure needed infrastructure upgrades.

The project will include milling the existing roadway and installing a new asphalt overlay. Crews will also complete targeted concrete repairs, review drainage conditions, restore pavement markings, and install audible roadway delineators to improve driver safety.

Weber also pointed to another major infrastructure project in the 38th Senate District. A $9 million improvement project on Route 303, stretching from Al Foxie Way to Route 9W in the towns of Clarkstown and Orangetown, is currently underway and expected to be completed by next winter.

“Safe roads are essential to our daily lives, our local economy, and the well-being of our community,” Weber said. “I will continue working with state and local partners to ensure Rockland County receives the infrastructure investment it deserves.”

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Government

Pentagon Identifies 4 U.S. Soldiers Killed in Iran Drone Strike

Published

7 days ago

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March 4, 2026

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WASHINGTON — The Pentagon on Tuesday identified four of the six American service members killed during the opening hours of the war with Iran.

The soldiers died Saturday in Kuwait when an Iranian drone struck a U.S. tactical operations center at the Port of Shuaiba, a key military logistics hub supporting regional operations.

Those identified are:

  • Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven

  • Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue

  • Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake

  • Spc. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines

Defense officials said the service members were supporting operations in the region when the drone impacted the command post. Two additional soldiers killed in the attack have not yet been publicly identified pending notification of next of kin.

The strike marks the first confirmed U.S. military fatalities since hostilities between the United States and Iran escalated. Military officials have warned that further casualties are possible as operations continue across the region.

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