Governor Chris Christie and Bob Martin, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, have issued orders restricting water use for all residents and businesses in the State of New Jersey.
“Although the State's water supplies are not directly threatened at this time, significant compromises to the energy supply in the wake of Hurricane Sandy may negatively affect the ability to maintain the water supply system and dictate the need for all New Jerseyans to conserve water to the maximum extent practicable,” said Martin in an administrative order.According to the order, lawn watering, car or boat washing, outdoor power washing, ornamental outdoor water use (water fountains, artificial waterfalls, etc.), and washing impervious surfaces are prohibited. Indoor water use should be limited to the greatest extent possible.
“With significant backup generation in place, we have been able to maintain water service to our customers during and after the storm,” said Jim Glozzy, vice president and general manager, United Water New Jersey. “However, with a power grid that is still unstable, we continue to rely on fuel-powered generators and fuel is in short supply. Water restrictions seem prudent at this time.”
For further details on the water restrictions, customers can visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website at www.nj.gov/dep/special/hurricane-sandy.