Conserving water is always a good idea, but during a drought it is a necessity.
Pennsylvania uses a three-stage drought-operating plan. It begins with a Drought Watch requesting a voluntary 5% reduction of water use, and then progresses to a Drought Warning requesting a voluntary 10% reduction of water use. The final stage is a Drought Emergency which imposes mandatory restrictions on nonessential water use.
Areas served by Chester Water Authority (CWA) are presently under a Drought Warning declared by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection on February 18, 2026.
Chester Water Authority is asking its customers to support a voluntary 10% reduction in water use and implement conservation efforts to save water. There are several simple ways to minimize water use and avoid wasting water including:
- repairing drips and leaks on plumbing fixtures
- running the dishwasher or washing machine only when full
- not running water while shaving or brushing teeth
- using a bucket of water when washing the car and using a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle
- using a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle when watering plants & shrubs
More water conservation tips and ideas can be found on our Resources page or by contacting our Customer Service Group at 610-876-8181. Additional information may be obtained from the PA DEP website at www.dep.pa.gov/drought
Please be careful to use water wisely and conserve wherever possible during this Drought Watch. Chester Water Authority thanks you for your consideration and assistance in this effort.
