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Pennsylvania American Water is urging customers to conserve water following a drought watch declared by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The company is asking residents in 17 counties, including Adams, Beaver, and Butler, to voluntarily reduce non-essential water use by 10 to 15 percent, which equates to about 11 to 16 gallons per day.
Brandy Braun, director of water quality and environmental compliance for Pennsylvania American Water, emphasized the importance of this measure, stating, "Our sources of supply are currently adequate to meet the needs of our customers, but we want to prepare for the potential for more severe conditions that could lead to stricter conservation measures in the future" (source).
The DEP expanded the drought watch to 37 counties based on indicators such as precipitation, surface water flow, and soil moisture. This is the first and least severe level of the state's drought classifications (source).
Pennsylvania American Water provides resources for water conservation, including a water use calculator and tips for reducing water consumption. The company is also a member of the Alliance for Water Efficiency (source).