COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Water Resources is calling on residents to use water wisely as dry conditions continue to impact the state. With nearly 78% of Ohio experiencing various levels of drought, the division is closely monitoring the situation and its effects on agriculture, transportation, municipal water supplies, wildlife, and recreational activities.
The ongoing drought presents complex challenges, including reduced agricultural yields and transportation difficulties on major rivers. The ODNR emphasizes the importance of water conservation, especially during these critical times, and is providing educational resources for businesses and residents alike.
To promote responsible water use, the Division of Water Resources has outlined several conservation tips for homeowners, including:
- Watering lawns and gardens only during the cooler parts of the day and adhering to local watering restrictions.
- Promptly repairing leaks and updating old fixtures to more efficient models.
- Reducing shower times to save 5-7 gallons of water per minute.
- Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads to save significant amounts of water annually.
Comprehensive information and resources are available on ODNR’s Water Conservation Website.
The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that much of Ohio is currently facing abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions, with some areas experiencing severe to exceptional drought. Forecasts suggest that the drought may persist, particularly in southern and eastern Ohio, while central, northern, and western regions may continue to develop drought conditions.
For the latest updates on drought status, visit drought.gov/states/ohio.
