DEP Plans Hearing at Library on Water Supply Conditions

The state Department of Environmental Protection believes there could be a critical water supply situation and is planning a public hearing on the topic in Millburn.

The hearing will be held on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Millburn Public Library "to review current water supply conditions in the state, and especially five Northeastern counties, and obtain public input regarding available water supply management options," according to an advisory. The northeast region includes Essex, Bergen, Hudson, Morris and Passaic counties.

The state DEP issued a drought watch for the area earlier this month and could declare a drought warning if conditions worsen.

Under the drought watch, DEP officials asked residents in the five counties to voluntarily conserve water. The DEP provided these water conservation tips:

• Do not over-water lawns and landscaping. Two times per week for 30 minutes in morning or late evening typically is sufficient. Use a hose with a hand-held nozzle to water flowers and shrubs.
• To save water at home, fix leaky faucets and pipes.
• Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth and shaving.
• Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.
• Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.