Rockland County Water Advisory Council Expands Efforts to Promote Conservation

A Rockland County organization focused on protecting and planning for the region’s water resources has expanded its effort to promote conservation, public engagement and long-term water sustainability with the launch of a new public information website and adoption of a new name.

Formerly known as the Rockland County Task Force on Water Resources Management, the group will now operate as the Rockland County Water Advisory Council. Officials said the change reflects updates to the council’s enabling legislation, which modernizes its authority, membership and responsibilities while preserving its role as a stakeholder-driven body focused on developing sustainable water management strategies for the county.

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Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson, who chairs the council, said the rebranding and legislative updates position the organization to play a larger role in educating the public and guiding future water resource planning.

“This name change reflects who we are today and the direction we’re headed,” Davidson said. “The updated legislation gives us the tools we need to continue serving our community and fulfill our mission with clarity and purpose.”

The council announced the transition alongside the launch of a new website designed to serve as a central resource for residents, businesses, educators and local governments seeking information about water conservation, local water systems and environmental stewardship.

The website includes educational materials, conservation tips, webinar registration information and updates on community outreach initiatives. County officials said the project was funded through support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as part of ongoing efforts to increase public awareness about sustainable water use and long-term water resource protection.

“The Water Advisory Council, with a new name, expanded membership, and new website, will empower community leaders, industry partners and consumers alike to steward our water supply in the years and decades ahead,” Davidson added.

As part of its expanded public education efforts, the council will host a free virtual Lunch & Learn webinar, “The Rivers in Our Backyard: Hudson and Hackensack,” on Tuesday June 9 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in recognition of National Rivers Month.

The program will explore the role of rivers in Rockland County’s ecosystem, local water quality conditions and ongoing conservation efforts. Featured speakers include Shannon Roback of Riverkeeper and Isaiah Leach of Hackensack Riverkeeper.

Roback is expected to discuss findings from Riverkeeper’s water quality monitoring programs, while Leach will provide updates on conservation projects and environmental initiatives underway in Rockland County.

Officials encouraged residents to visit the council’s new Water Hero Website for educational resources, conservation information and registration details for upcoming programs and events.