October 26, 2012

CONTACT:

Chris Gilbride / Ted Timbers (718) 595-6600

Statement of Department of Environmental Protection Deputy Commissioner Paul Rush on Watershed Storm Preparations

“In preparation for the heavy rains Hurricane Sandy is expected to bring this weekend and early next week, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is taking steps to help protect communities throughout the watershed, and the New York City water supply. We are moving water out of the Schoharie, Neversink, Ashokan and Rondout Reservoirs to provide additional storage capacity. In addition, our Bureau of Water Supply will have extra staff on duty this weekend to respond to potential impacts on the City’s water supply facilities and the 100 miles of City maintained highways in the upstate watershed. DEP Police are also coordinating with local emergency officials and specially trained Emergency Services personnel will be on-hand to aid local communities. The Emergency Operations Center in Eastview has been activated and DEP personnel have tested our Satellite Communications Network. We will continue to monitor the forecast closely and keep watershed communities informed.”

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