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

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10 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

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

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1 week ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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Government

Flock Cameras in Rockland County: Safety Tool or Privacy Concern?

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1 week ago

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August 8, 2026

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Flock cameras have become an increasingly debated topic across the country, including here in Rockland County.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to capture license plates and vehicle characteristics as vehicles pass by. Police can use the information to assist with investigations, including locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with wanted suspects, helping find missing people and developing leads following crimes.

One of the cameras pictured is located outside The Shops at Nanuet in Clarkstown. A graphic from the website DeFlock also shows reported camera locations throughout the area.

Supporters say the technology can give police an important investigative tool and help solve crimes more quickly. Critics, however, have raised concerns about privacy and the collection of information about where people drive, even when they are not suspected of committing a crime.

The debate ultimately comes down to a question of public safety versus privacy.

What do you think? Are Flock cameras a valuable tool for law enforcement, or are they an intrusion on your privacy?

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