Drought information for purveyors-Division of Drinking Water Division of Drinking Water DOH Report to Senate Committees State Department of Health Drought Response Actions downloadable in Microsoft Word Ensuring safe, reliable drinking water is among Health's top priorities. Health has launched drought response activities Water systems using surface water sources, shallow wells, springs and other aquifers closely tied to runoff are most vulnerable to drought problems.
Technical assistance is focused on water systems most vulnerable to drought impact.
Activities include educating system operators about water conservation, promoting water audits and leak detection, supporting the development of water shortage response plans, helping identify alternate water sources, helping develop drought ordinances, and ensuring the safe use of emergency sources of water. Health is working with Ecology and other agencies on the emergency funding available for drought response. Water systems most at risk to water shortages will be given priority for financial assistance. Communication and outreach are essential to success Communication activities target public water suppliers, aimed at raising drought awareness, promoting preparedness and conservation, and identifying options for reducing drought impacts. A drought response web site is now available on the Department of Health homepage .