Governor Meyer Declares Statewide Drought Watch
DELAWARE – Governor Matt Meyer has issued a statewide drought watch due to a steady decline in precipitation levels throughout the state, particularly in Kent and Sussex Counties.
Wednesday’s drought watch declaration is the second time it has been implemented in three years, and comes after Governor Meyer received guidance from the Delaware Water Supply Coordinating Council. During this time, Delawareans are asked to voluntarily reduce outdoor uses of water. Additionally, residents and non-farm businesses are asked to practice wise water use in their homes in order to preserve the state’s water resources for more necessary uses.
“A drought watch calls for voluntary actions to reduce personal use of our water resources. Given how sharply water supply levels have dropped in many parts of the state over the last eight to 10 months, we urge Delawareans to take it very seriously,” Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) Secretary Greg Patterson said. “Whatever Delawareans can do to personally help alleviate the current strain on our water supply is appreciated. We hope that starting voluntary conservation efforts now – along with some favorable weather – can help prevent more serious drought measures later this summer and fall.”
According to WSCC’s latest assessment, the state would need to receive 21 inches of rainfall over the next three months to recharge Delaware’s water supply back to normal levels. There is concern about achieving these quantities, as the next few months encompass summer, when evaporation is at its highest.
In addition to voluntarily water conservation measures, Delawareans are required by law through Sept. 30 to heed the state’s open burning ban, which prohibits activities such as bonfires, controlled or agricultural burning, fires for land clearing, and fires for demolition and removal of hazards.
State officials and the WSCC will continue to assess water conditions and will provide guidance if a drought warning or drought emergency becomes necessary.
To read more about the drought watch, click here.
