Is a Drought on the Horizon?

A quick look at your lawn will reveal that April showers are sorely needed. The soil is already dry and a brush fire broke out on the trail behind the Scarsdale High School tennis courts on Thursday April 12. When fire fighters arrived they found a decayed tree on fire. They were able to extinguish the flames at the base, but smoke was emanating from the tree up to 30 feet off the ground. As a result, the highway department was called in to take the tree down.

Was the lack of rain the culprit? Scarsdale10583 got in touch with the Scarsdale Water Department to ask them some questions about our water supply, and here is what we learned from Steve Mastromarino:

How are the water levels at the reservoirs compared to this time last year?

According to NYC the reservoir level is at 90.9%, Last year it at this time it was 97.1% See current reservoir levels in the illustration below and visit the NYC website to learn more.

How is Scarsdale's pumping capacity?

We will begin the Reeves Newsome Water Supply Station renovations, -- so being careful of water use during this time is not only wise but prudent.

Do you think we are headed for drought conditions and watering restrictions?

The Village Trustees will discuss a resolution for that situation at the next Board meeting on April 24th 2012, but without rain I can’t see where they wouldn’t recommend restrictions.

Is there anything residents can do now to conserve?

• Limit the time that lawn irrigation systems are in use
• Remember the peek water demand time is from 2am -8am. If lawn watering can be done outside those critical times the demand should be able to be met.
• Watering 2-3 days a week, rather than everyday will help the demand on the system
• Reduce watering in each zone from 20 to 10 minutes to reduce demand. 
  
• Repair any internal or external water leaks on their property.
• Report any water leaks that are noticed so repairs can be done quickly