NEW JERSEY – New Jersey American Water has ordered all customers statewide to immediately curb nonessential water use after the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection elevated its drought status to a Warning.
The utility urged residents to take steps to cut indoor consumption, stressing that conservation is critical as dry conditions continue.
“Water is our most precious resource, and during times like these, every drop counts,” said Ben Morris, the company’s vice president of operations. He said New Jersey American Water is coordinating with state officials and monitoring system conditions, but emphasized that “conservation starts at home.”
The DEP first issued a Drought Watch in October due to persistent below-average rainfall. Officials upgraded the status after a public hearing that reviewed declining water supply indicators.
Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette said the worsening conditions reflect long-term climate trends. “The precipitation and water supply uncertainty we’ve experienced over the past year is a symptom of the impacts of climate change here in New Jersey,” he said. “We ask residents, businesses, and partners in local government to join us in spreading the urgency of the need to conserve water.”
Under the mandatory notice, customers are asked to reduce nonessential indoor water use by following conservation steps such as shutting off faucets while brushing teeth or shaving, running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, shortening showers, repairing leaks, insulating exposed pipes and choosing WaterSense-certified appliances.
“These small but impactful actions not only protect our water supplies but also help customers save money on their water bills,” Morris said. He added that the company offers several assistance programs for households struggling with seasonal costs.
New Jersey American Water said it is tracking supply levels closely and does not expect a significant disruption in service. System redundancies allow the utility to shift among water sources as needed. Still, officials said the state’s Drought Warning and the company’s conservation directive are intended to preserve supplies and prevent more severe shortages.
Customers can review their usage, access conservation tips and apply for bill assistance through their MyWater accounts. Additional information on water-saving practices and financial assistance programs is available at newjerseyamwater.com.
