For Immediate Release
Hon. Ellen Jaffee (845) 729-9810
Erika Caufield, Press Coordinator (845) 638-5184 

 Legislator Ellen Jaffee, Chair of the Environmental Committee, and County Executive Scott Vanderhoef Announce Proposal for a Comprehensive Assessment of Rockland County’s Water Supply 

New City, NY (March 9, 2004) – Legislator Ellen Jaffee, Chair of the Environmental Committee, and County Executive Scott Vanderhoef have announced a proposal for a comprehensive assessment of Rockland County’s water supply to be conducted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).  USGS, a federally funded agency with specific expertise in hydrogeology, will conduct the study in order to provide information and data to quantify water resources within Rockland County.  

The last study to focus on the overall hydrogeology of this aquifer was completed by the USGS in 1959.   

Legislator Jaffee stated, “During our hearings last year on county water resources, serious concerns were raised about declines in aquifer storage, stream flow and the long term sustainability of our bedrock aquifer resource. In addition, issues such as increased development, greater demand for public water supplies, reduced recharge due to more impermeable surfaces and many new private wells, underscored the need for a study that refines our understanding of the aquifer so that it can be safeguarded for the future. This four year assessment by USGS will help quantify available water resources, and provide essential information which will guide water managers and regulators to ensure proper management of Rockland’s water resources and identify necessary actions to preserve and protect our water supply.”  

This comprehensive water study will be jointly funded by USGS, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, United Water and Rockland County.  

County Executive Scott Vanderhoef stated, “A comprehensive evaluation of Rockland’s water resources is needed to support resource management and development decisions that will ensure an adequate water supply for the residents of Rockland County, both now and into the foreseeable future. This agreement with USGS provides Rockland County with a rare opportunity to have our limited water resources analyzed by a world-renowned federal agency whose specialized knowledge and credibility are impossible to duplicate. I thank Legislator Jaffee for her partnership on this important initiative.” 

Chairman Salvatore Corallo added, “Both the Legislature and the County Executive recognize that a detailed assessment of our water system is critical for planning efforts and an assessment is long overdue.” 

The Environmental Committee meeting is on Thursday, March 11, at 7:00PM in the Legislative Chambers.  The USGS will be present and the public and media are invited to attend.