DUNCANNON, Pa. — Amid the massive Pennsylvania heatwave, the Borough of Duncannon has ordered a mandatory water conservation effort after declaring a drought emergency.
The order limits nonessential water use among residents.
“It’s early on in the summer; we usually don’t have to deal with it so early," said Christina DeChamplain. "This is something I would expect more in August."
DeChamplain recently returned home from vacation and said she noticed how the heatwave has already taken its toll on her lawn.
"We have a small pond in our backyard, which is actually almost empty. So that's something we won't be able to fill," said DeChamplain. “Our grass is starting to turn brown and crunchy, so we won’t be able to tend to those things.”
According to the borough's announcement, the following water uses are prohibited during the drought emergency:
- Watering lawns, gardens, landscaped areas, trees, shrubs and outdoor plants.
- Washing paved surfaces, such as streets, sidewalks, driveways, garages, parking areas, tennis courts and patios.
- Operating water fountains, artificial waterfalls and reflecting pools.
- Washing vehicles.
- Serving water in eating places unless specifically requested by the individual.
- Filling and topping off swimming pools.
Donald Allman said he is frustrated with the borough's announcement and added that the plants in his garden will die if he can't water them.
“I spent $200 on all those plants," said Allman. "They’re not going to die just because the borough is being stupid.”
Allman said he is wondering how Duncannon's water levels have already gotten so low.
“I’d like to know why the borough water is so low when we had plenty of rain these past couple of months," he said. "It rained a lot, so I’d like to know what they consider low.”
The Borough of Duncannon said it will notify its residents when the prohibited water use restrictions are lifted. Neighbors say they hope the order is lifted sooner rather than later.
“Hopefully we’ll get some rain," said DeChamplain.