ALBANY COUNTY — Fifty counties, including Albany, are now under a drought watch, according to an announcement from the governor and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation.

The state is encouraging residents in affected counties, particularly those dependent on private groundwater wells, to conserve water whenever possible during the coming weeks.

A watch is the first of four levels of State drought advisories, which are watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a drought watch. 

While few public water-supply challenges have been reported due to dry conditions, below-normal precipitation during the last several months, low stream flows, and low groundwater levels prompted the need for action to ensure adequate notice to public water supplies, the announcement said.

Local public water suppliers are urged to assess the current situation, promote voluntary conservation, and take appropriate actions to manage risk. 

The drought watch is triggered by the State Drought Index, which reflects precipitation levels, reservoir and lake levels, and stream flow and groundwater levels in the nine drought regions of the state.

To protect water resources, homeowners are encouraged to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use and follow this advice:

— Water lawns only when necessary, choose watering methods that avoid waste, and water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and maximize soil hydration;

— Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners to water plants;

— Raise lawn mower cutting heights. Longer grass is healthier with stronger roots and needs less water;

— Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks;

— Fix leaking pipes, hoses, and faucets;

— Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry;

— Take shorter showers or fill the bathtub partly;

— Install water-saving plumbing fixtures;

— Don’t run the tap to make water hot or cold; and

— Wash cars less frequently.