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After the state lifted its drought warning earlier this month, New Jersey American Water has canceled its mandatory conservation notice for all customers across the Garden State, the Camden-based utility announced June 23.

However, the company said a voluntary conservation notice remains in place for Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth and Ocean counties.

NJ American Water issued the notice in November after the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection declared a drought warning amid a record-breaking dry spell and warmer temperatures.

On June 11, the Murphy administration lifted the drought warning “as rainfall patterns have improved in recent months.” But because of slower recovery, the Coastal South region was moved to drought watch status, according to state officials.

“Record breaking dry fall and near record breaking dry winter conditions led to prolonged water supply deficits,” said state climatologist David Robinson. “Precipitation approached normal totals in early spring, followed by New Jersey’s fifth wettest May dating back to 1895. Just in time for summer, the recent wet period returned water supplies to near normal conditions.”

Ben Morris, vice president of operations for NJ American Water, said the more consistent rainfall “has brought much-needed relief to our water systems.” However, he urged customers “to remain mindful of their water use.”

Tips for water conservation:

• Use smart irrigation controllers and install rain sensors
• Water lawns in the early morning or late evening to reduce water loss through evaporation
• Water two times per week at a maximum
• Run dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are full
• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes
• NJ American Water lists many more tips here

Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette thanked the public and all stakeholders around the state for their help conserving water and spreading the word over the past nine months.

“All of us continue to stress that, even though conditions have improved, water conservation is always important, especially as drought conditions become more persistent as a result of climate change,” LaTourette added.