Our view: Be a good citizen; restrict water use
Water conservation is what you might call a first world problem.
In a third world nation, getting clean water might involve a hike of more than a mile through difficult terrain. But for us, it’s as simple as turning on a faucet. That doesn’t mean we should take it for granted, particularly during this long stretch of dry weather.
The National Weather Service says northern Illinois has had an average of about 3 inches less precipitation since January than previous year. Hebron has had only 10.35 inches of precipitation compared with the annual average of 15.55 inches.
Water levels are falling in lakes and streams, and McHenry County officials say the groundwater monitoring well in Algonquin Township is more than 4 feet below the average for June compared with the past three years.
Combined with the soaring temperatures over the past few weeks, this could be a tough summer for farmers, who obviously need water for their crops to survive.
We all need water. But during this dry spell, need is the operative world. McHenry County officials are organizing a summit of municipal leaders, golf course and agricultural represetnatives and other high-volume water users to discuss potential responses should the dry weather remain.
Some municipalities have enacted mandatory odd/even lawn-watering restrictions, while others have voluntary restrictions in place. We’d urge residents to adhere to those voluntary standards, and hope that adherence will keep residents across the area from having mandatory restrictions placed on them.
Water is a finite resource, which becomes more apparent during this dry summer. Simple things such as turning off the faucet while shaving or brushing your teeth and only doing full loads in dishwashers and washing machines can make a difference.
For the sake of the local water supply, maybe it doesn’t matter that much of the lawn gets a little brown. For more ideas on water conservation, check out www.co.mchenry.il.us/departments/waterresources.
