Drought

Long Island is on a drought watch due to dry weather conditions over the last few weeks, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. But the Riverhead Water District has yet to push the capacity of its system this summer.

Officials say it's imperative for residents and businesses practice water conservation measures when it comes to irrigating their lawns and landscapes.

The Riverhead Water District, which last week imposed odd/even-day watering restrictions on businesses and residents is now asking customers to refrain from watering lawns and

“We’re in dire straits,” Supervisor Sean Walter said in a phone interview this afternoon. “Everything in the water district is running flat-out right now" and the district still can't fill up its storage tanks.