DEP Issues Water Conservation Advisory for NNJ

In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, DEP Commissioner Don Martin has issued the following advisory:

We are asking residents and businesses served by the PVSC to heed the Governor’s Executive Order for mandatory water use restrictions, and to be even more diligent in conserving water to help us reduce the flow of effluents into the harbor and limit environmental impacts until we get this plant fully operational.

Among the restrictions:

• All indoor water use, including showers, baths and domestic cleaning, must be conducted with minimum amounts of water.
• Non-essential indoor water use is prohibited.
• Watering of grass, lawns and landscapes is prohibited except for newly sodded or seeded areas done by professional. landscapers or immediately following a commercial application of fertilizer, pesticide or herbicides; minimum amount of water should be used during these applications.
• Use of water for washing paved surfaces, such as streets, sidewalks, driveways, garages, parking lots and patios is prohibited.
• Outdoor use of water for ornamental or aesthetic purposes, including fountains, artificial waterfalls, and reflecting pools is prohibited, except to preserve or support wildlife.
• Use of water for power washing of buildings is prohibited except for commercial enterprises engaged in power washing, and with minimum water use.
• Car and truck washing, except for emergency vehicles, is prohibited.