All applications for water withdrawal permits require a Water Conservation Program that demonstrates an applicant's water conservation and efficiency measures. These must be environmentally sound, economically feasible, and minimize inefficiencies and water losses. Such measures must include but are not limited to:
- source and customer metering;
- frequent system water auditing;
- system leak detection and repair;
- recycling and reuse, and;
- reductions during drought.
Water Conservation Manuals and Forms
Two Water Conservation Manuals are available. One is targeted for public water supply systems and the other is for facilities withdrawing water for non-potable uses.
- DEC's original Water Conservation Manual (PDF) was developed for public water supply systems. It contains a model water conservation plan describing beneficial near term and long range water conservation measures that can be adapted as necessary to reflect local water resource needs and conditions.
- The Water Conservation Manual for Non-Potable Water Supplies (PDF) was authored by the US Geological Survey (USGS) under contract with DEC and is titled, "A Survey of Methods for Implementing and Documenting Water Conservation in New York". This manual includes guidance and best management practices for non-potable uses such as industrial, agricultural, golf course irrigation, power generation, and more.
- Public water supply system applicants must fill out the Water Conservation Program Form (WCPF) (PDF) which must be submitted with any new water withdrawal application.
- Non-potable water supply applicants must use the Water Conservation Program Form for Non-Potable Withdrawals (PDF).
