FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE03-01
January
3, 2003
Contact:
Charles Sturcken
(718) 595-6600
DEP
Commissioner Ward Declares End To City-Wide Drought Watch
Commissioner Christopher O. Ward announced today that abundant precipitation
during the past three months in the upstate watershed has raised reservoir
levels enough to allow for removal of the Drought Watch declared by Mayor
Michael R. Bloomberg when he lifted the Drought Emergency, Stage 1 for
November 1, 2002.
“Precipitation has been sufficiently above normal since September
and October through the end of the year, said Commissioner Ward. As a
result, the expectation is high that on June 1, which is the beginning
of the City’s water year, levels will be at 100% — a year’s
supply for the many uses of our water supply through the summer months
as well as on a daily basis.”
Commissioner Ward, also noted that, “It is still important that
New Yorkers continue to observe the water conservation habits that permitted
us to get through the long drought of 2001-02, and the need to observe
the City’s year-round water use restrictions, which remain in effect.
They include prohibition on watering sidewalks and lawns between November
1st and March 31st and illegally opening fire hydrants.”