July 23, 1999

Contact: Charles Sturcken (718/595-6600)

City Recommends Water Conservation

New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Joel A. Miele Sr., P.E. today recommended that all City residents conserve water. As record temperatures and low rainfall levels continue, DEP encourages City residents to conserve water. It is particularly important to conserve water when temperatures soar and water use is unusually high — conditions which can cause fluctuations in water pressure around the City.

Commissioner Miele said, "Water is a precious resource. It is important to use water wisely, particularly during extended dry weather. We urge City residents to practice water conservation, which will not only save money on water bills, but will conserve the supply on which we all depend."

While the City's reservoir levels are not significantly below normal, the lack of rainfall in the past few months underscores the importance of using water wisely. The following water conservation tips can help the City to save water. Additional information on water conservation and the City's reservoir levels is available on DEP's Web site at www.ci.nyc.ny.us/dep.