|
Making Every Drop Count
By Pat Scalera, CEO
At the time that I am writing this article (April 1st) all of us have great concern with the drought conditions that plague the state of New York and across this nation. By the time you read this, it may turn out that there is no longer a concern, and let's hope that is the case, but drought planning is essential and we need to prepare.On February 14, 2002, the NYSDEC upgraded from a drought watch to a drought warning the five boroughs of New York City, including Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens. In addition, DEC issued a drought watch for eight New York counties in the Adirondack region, including: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, northern Herkimer, St. Lawrence, Lewis and Warren. And the list continued……Drought warnings for the southeastern parts of New York and Long Island are on everyone's mind and the restrictions that could take place this summer, whether on a private well or on a municipal system.A drought watch and drought warning are the first two of four levels of state drought advisories (watch, warning, emergency and disaster). During a drought watch, local public water suppliers are urged to promote voluntary conservation and to review their drought contingency plans. Residents in the drought affected communities are encouraged to contact their water suppliers to learn about the status of their water supply and if there are local water restrictions in place. Residents also are urged to voluntarily conserve water and fix any leaking pipes and faucets. During a drought warning, local public water suppliers are urged to intensify voluntary conservation, intensify leakage control efforts, and make provisions for utilization of emergency supplies.The ongoing dry weather pattern warrants the need for more aggressive water conservation efforts on the part of local governments and county residents, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells. Residents in affected counties are encouraged to conserve water whenever possible until conditions improve.Local government elected officials and managers of our water supplies should be ensuring that their water rates are up to snuff and that the public is educated with water conservation tips. It is time for all water suppliers to review usage patterns and operating expenses. Proper water rates should ensure that a system can generate revenues necessary to cover their operations, maintenance, capital costs and to provide additional revenue reserves.I recently read an article that discussed water supplies that have incorporated a more expensive rate for above average water use, called conservation rates. They believe these rates will encourage conservation and help their customers to rethink the way they use water.A good example given in the article was that when the gas prices go up, most people complain and may even limit their driving, but eventually resume their normal driving habits. They believe a similar situation occurs with water rate increases.With time, and some education to your customers, you too can incorporate proper rates. Rates should provide fairly consistent revenues from year to year and be reasonable to your customers based on demand and volume. A rate increase during a low water use period, such as winter, will probably have less impact.Our field staff are familiar with the different methods the New York community water suppliers are using - whether it is block rate, seasonal rate, or volume charge. If you would like a representative from the NYRWA to visit with you and your elected officials on your water rates or conservation issues, please give us a call on our toll free line. Let's make every drop count.
Here's wishing you, your families and neighbors a safe and enjoyable summer.
|
|
