Modified Stage II Water Emergency Declared in Rockland County

By M.C. Millman

Mandatory water use restrictions for Rockland are in effect as of today due to the announcement by the Rockland Department of Health of a Modified Stage II Water Emergency.

The water emergency was declared because of the Ramapo River's unprecedented low flow levels, which has limited the use of Veolia's Ramapo Valley Well Field. This is a significant water source for Rockland County. As a result, the county is taking proactive measures to limit water consumption. 

The new water restrictions apply to all residents and businesses but mainly impact outdoor water usage, such as lawn watering. Those who get water from a private well are also required to implement the same water-saving measures. 

Rockland County officials posted the following rules.

Lawns may be watered twice a week only on specified days. Properties with odd-numbered addresses may water lawns only on Mondays and Thursdays during specific hours. Properties with even-numbered addresses may water lawns on Tuesdays and Fridays during specific hours. For automatic, in-ground irrigation systems, watering hours are between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. The hours for manual sprinklers or hose-fed irrigation are between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. 

Flower gardens, vegetable gardens, and landscaped areas (trees, shrubs, potted plants, or other outdoor plants) can be watered during specified hours every other day of the month according to the property address.

Properties with odd-numbered addresses may water on odd days of the month (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, etc.), and properties with even-numbered addresses may water on even days of the month (2, 4, 6, 8, etc.).

Water may not be used to wash any paved surfaces (public or private) such as streets, sidewalks, driveways, tennis courts, garages, parking areas, and patios, except as required for an emergency. 

Water will not be served in restaurants unless the patron requests it. 

The use of flow-through (non-recycled) fountains, artificial waterfalls, and reflecting pools is not allowed.

Water cannot be used for flushing sewers or hydrants except for emergencies.

All water leaks must be repaired within 48 hours. 

No bulk water supply from any source within the county may be exported outside the county.

Tips for conserving water include:

Using low-flow shower heads and toilets

Fixing leaks

Sweeping rather than washing paved surfaces

Running only full loads in washing machines and dishwashers

Switching to high-efficiency appliances when it's time for a replacement

Photo Credit: Flickr