On November 13th a statewide drought warning was issued by Gov. Murphy as New Jersey endures historically dry weather, frequent wildfires and diminishing water supplies. A drought warning allows state environmental officials to assume greater control of New Jersey's water suppliers and redirect water to the most-affected regions. The goal of a Drought Warning is to preserve and balance available water supplies in an effort to avert more serious water shortages in the future. The public is strongly urged to conserve water.
The Merchantville-Pennsauken Water Commission provides water for the Borough of Merchantville, Pennsauken Township and portions of about Cherry Hill and Collingswood.
The state DEP urged the public to take the following steps:
- Take 5-minute showers.
- Only run a load of laundry or dishes when full.
- Turn off the water when brushing teeth.
- At this time of year, it is appropriate to let lawns go dormant for the season.
- Winterize, and shut off irrigation systems as soon as possible.
- Only use a watering can to water flowers and shrubs, or allow them to go dormant for the season.
- Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.
- Use a commercial car wash that recycles water, as washing your car at home typically results in more water use.
- To save water at home, fix leaky faucets and pipes. Consider replacing your toilet with a low-flow version; this can save around 11,000 gallons per year.
- Upgrade your showerhead to low-flow versions, which can save some 7,700 gallons per year.
- Upgrade your faucets or install faucet aerators; this can save some 16,000 gallons per year.