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"Everyone talks about the weather, and while it's true you
can't do anything about it, you can be prepared for its influence,"
the governor said. "In the situation we face, we are being prudent
by bringing together our top experts in the state to evaluate needs
and formulate smart responses. The Drought Response Task Force is
composed of experts from the Illinois Water Survey, Illinois
Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Management, the
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the Illinois Department of
Agriculture, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the
Illinois Emergency Management Agency.
"Unlike a disaster such as a tornado, droughts are a subtle
emergency," said Gary Clark, professional engineer and director of
water resources for the Department of Natural Resources. "The
positive side of that is we have time to prepare a response, whether
it's a community with water-supply issues or a farmer in need of
water for livestock."
The Illinois Water Survey reports that during the months of
March, April, May and June, the third-lowest amount of rainfall was
recorded since 1895, the year to which official weather records date
back. Currently, the National Weather Service categorizes most of
Illinois in a moderate risk category for drought. Severe drought
risk is forecast for the north central portion of the state, a
region framed by the cities of Bloomington, Peoria, Rockford and
DeKalb.
"It's important to realize that we are at a stage of observation
and planning, not panic," said Joel Brunsvold, director of the
Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Those seeking updated information on dry conditions can learn
more by visiting
http://www.sws.uiuc.edu/hilites/drought/.
The website includes an overview of weather conditions, soil
moisture maps, information about water supply and demand in
Illinois, water conservation tips, and a weekly drought update.
"Our forecast statewide is rather bleak," said Jim Angel,
Illinois Water Survey state climatologist. "It appears we may see
scattered rainfall, but we do not anticipate any major rain-making
systems moving through Illinois."
The governor's Drought Response Task Force will place special
emphasis on monitoring issues affecting public safety and the
Illinois economy. That includes agricultural considerations, as well
as community water supplies and private wells. Task force members
will also be alert to the effects of dry weather on Illinois
wildlife and natural areas and will track the regional implications
of the dry conditions.
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 "We are keeping a close eye on the key Illinois crops of corn and
soybeans," said Chuck Hartke, director of the Illinois Department of
Agriculture. "Soybeans have just reached the critical flowering
stage, while corn is a few weeks away from pollination. We are
looking at some limits on yield potential. We are also scouting for
drought-related pests. "
The Illinois Department of Agriculture is working cooperatively
with the USDA Farm Service Agency to monitor the effects of weather
conditions on Illinois crops. Should crop status deteriorate, a
federal disaster declaration could be sought to bring financial aid
to Illinois farmers.
The Illinois Department of Public Health is actively engaged in
the cooperative effort to address drought potential. The department
monitors and regulates private well water and non-community water
supplies. It also plays an active role in educating the public on
ways to conserve water.
"By working together, we can address the potential for a
drought," said Dr. Eric Whitaker, state public health director. "The
department is actively participating in this task force to ensure
water conservation efforts are being implemented to protect our
state's water resources."
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency suggests state
residents make a conscious effort to conserve water while doing
everyday tasks. The agency recommends that everyone should always be
mindful of their everyday usage and conserve water to the maximum
extent possible.
"This is especially important during a drought," said Renee
Cipriano, director of IEPA. "There are many simple things anyone can
do make a difference. First among them is to simply turn off the
tap. Do not let running water go down the drain while you brush your
teeth, rinse your dishes or wash your car."
The activation of the Drought Response Task Force is based on a
protocol set up by the Water Plan Task Force in 1984. It has
previously been activated eight times, most recently in the year
2000.
"What we have learned from droughts of the past is not to wait
until the situation becomes a crisis," said William C. Burke,
director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. "We are able
to be on top of this from the beginning and can have plans firmly in
place if a bad situation should happen to develop."
The next meeting of the Illinois Drought Response Task Force is
scheduled for July 7.
[News release from the governor's
office] |
