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Hudson County Announces Emergency Drought Restrictions

United Water endorses proactive county response

Harrington Park, NJ, February 20, 2002 — Hudson County Executive Bernard M. Hartnett, Jr. has announced water emergency drought restrictions for the entire County of Hudson. Hartnett. made the decision in concert with Bergen County officials who also declared drought restrictions in light of an extended dry period. The reservoirs that supply Hudson County are presently 30 to 50 percent below normal levels for this time of year. Rainfall has been 14 inches below average for the last eight months.

“We are experiencing one of the driest winters in 75 years,” said County Executive Hartnett. “Because of this, we need residents to understand the severity of the situation and urge them to make a conscious effort in conserving water.”

The Hudson County emergency proclamation imposed the following prohibitions:
• The use of water for washing non-public paved surfaces, including but not limited to sidewalks, driveways, garages, parking areas and patios.
• The use of water for non-commercial washing or cleaning of automobiles, trucks, trailers or any other vehicles except for emergency vehicles.
• Water cannot be served in restaurants unless the patron requests it.
• The use of flow-through (non-recycled) fountains, artificial waterfalls and reflecting pools is not allowed.
• Water cannot be used for flushing sewers or hydrants except for emergencies.

“This is a serious situation that affects the health, safety and welfare of all residents. These restrictions are necessary at this time and will probably need to be maintained for at least a few months in an absence of above-average rainfall,” said County Executive Hartnett.

“We fully support the County Executive’s decision to call for drought restrictions now,” said Robert Iacullo, president of United Water New Jersey. Iacullo added that conservation now may delay the need for tougher restrictions in the future.

United Water Resources