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The Pocono Mountains have been placed under a Drought Watch by the state's Drought Task Force. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has reported that the past two months have been drier than usual, affecting 33 counties in the state. The Drought Watch is a call for residents to be aware of the dry conditions and voluntarily reduce their water usage.
If conditions worsen and the state declares a Drought Emergency, voluntary water restrictions will become mandatory. Pennsylvania American Water, a major water utility company in the state, has also urged its customers to conserve water due to the ongoing drought in northeast Pennsylvania. The company's request applies to 25 counties, including Monroe and Pike County, which are part of the Poconos region.
According to PAhomepage.com, Pennsylvania American Water is asking residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce their nonessential water use by at least 10 to 15 percent, which equates to approximately 11 to 16 gallons per day. Jim Runzer, Vice President of Operations for Pennsylvania American Water, stated, "Our sources of supply are currently adequate to meet the needs of our customers, as we vigilantly monitor our drinking water sources, we want to mitigate the potential for more severe conditions that could lead to stricter conservation measures in the future."