Effective immediately, all Ripley Water District customers — both residential and commercial — must take steps to reduce water usage. These restrictions will remain in place until further notice.

Ways You Can Conserve Water:
• Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes.
• Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
• Take short showers; turn off water while lathering.
• Skip pre-rinsing dishes; most dishwashers can remove food particles and stains without pre-rinsing.
• Use disposable plates, cups, and utensils.
• Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator or microwave — not under running water.
• Clean vegetables in a bowl of water, not under the tap.

• Do not wash vehicles.
• Do not hose down sidewalks, decks, or driveways — use a broom instead.
• Do not water lawns or landscaping.
• Do not fill pools, hot tubs, or other large containers.
• Check for and fix leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes.
• The fire department cannot use District water to fill private wells.
Conditions Remain Critical
Recent rainfall was not sufficient to restore reservoir levels. With no significant rain in the forecast and Chautauqua County currently under a drought watch, continued conservation is essential.
Stay updated on drought conditions across New York State here:
https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quantity/drought/current-drought-conditions
Stay Informed with NY Alert
All residents and business owners are strongly encouraged to enroll in the NY Alert system to receive timely updates on this water emergency, as well as other public health and safety notifications.
Sign up here: https://alert.ny.gov/sign-ny-alert-0
Tip: Use an email address or phone number you check frequently.
Questions contact:
• Ripley Water District: 716-413-8010
• Chautauqua County Health Department: 716-753-4481
• Official updates will be posted on the County website:
https://chqgov.com/news