Pictured is a photo taken by Ripley Water Operator Andrew Stine on Oct. 6 of the creek bed leading into the reservoir.

RIPLEY — A state of emergency has been declared by the town due to critically low water levels in the Ripley Reservoir. The ongoing Mandatory Water Conservation Order remains in place for all customers within the Ripley Water District.

“The State of Emergency declaration is serious,” said Town of Ripley Supervisor, Laura Pless. “Our community must work together to reduce the amount of water we are using. We aren’t out of water yet, but we need our residential and commercial users to decrease their usage even more so that we can be sure there is enough water for essential needs such as drinking, sanitation, and fire protection. Please reduce your water usage wherever you can.”

Despite residents’ efforts to reduce water use, a lack of rainfall since early last week has caused Reservoir levels to continue to decline. Following a review of the situation on Tuesday, town and county officials have determined that stronger measures are necessary to safeguard public health and safety.

Water supplied to Ripley Water District customers remains safe to drink. However, bottled water donations are being requested from local retailers to help reduce household water use and preserve the limited Reservoir supply. Details about the distribution of bottled water will be shared as soon as they become available.

In addition, local authorities are coordinating efforts to transport water via fire trucks to the Ripley Reservoir to increase supply to the treatment plant. Residents should expect increased fire truck activity along Routes 20 and 76 during this period.

Effective immediately, all Ripley Water District customers — both residential and commercial — must take steps to reduce water usage. These restrictions will remain in place until further notice and can be enforced now that a state of emergency has been declared.

Supervisor Pless adds, “The Town of Ripley sincerely appreciates the collaboration and support we are receiving from Chautauqua County and New York State Emergency Services, and our local fire department. Their tireless efforts to assist the Town are greatly appreciated.”

Ways to conserve water include: turn off the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes; only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads; ake short showers; turn off water while lathering; thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator or microwave — not under running water; do not wash vehicles, hose down sidewalks, decks, or driveways — use a broom instead; and do not water lawns or landscaping.

The fire department cannot use District water to fill private wells.