As seen in the Mid-Island Times on June 19, 2025.
Month: June 2025
Easy Tips to Help Residents Conserve Water and Cut Down on Costs
With pool season nearly in full swing, the Plainview Water District (PWD) is reminding residents to be mindful when filling and maintaining their pools this summer. As part of the ongoing Preserve Plainview initiative, PWD is sharing helpful tips to prevent water waste and keep summer fun sustainable.
“Pools are a big part of summer life in the Plainview-Old Bethpage community, but they also account for a tremendous amount of water use,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “When we take simple steps to use that water responsibly, the impact across the District is enormous. We’re here to help residents enjoy their pools while keeping water conservation top of mind.”
Whether you’re filling your pool for the first time this season or just topping it off, these quick tips can help you use less water and avoid common mistakes:
Recommended Tips for Filling Pools:
- Check for any possible holes or leaks in the liner before filling up.
- Don’t
leave the pool unattended when it is being filled. Someone should remain
present at all times to avoid overfilling and expedite shut off in case of an
emergency.
- NEVER leave a pool filling overnight.
- Pools should be covered when not in use. Hundreds of gallons of water per month can be lost due to evaporation.
- Only add chemicals to the pool when it is full, and only add what you need according to the pool manual. This will avoid improper levels, which would cause you to empty out and refill the pool.
- As an additional precaution, always use a hose connection vacuum breaker to prevent water flow reversal.
- Always be mindful of children. Ensure your pool is properly fenced and has a pool alarm.
“With pool chemicals like chlorine being a costly expense, using water wisely is not just an environmental choice—it’s also a financial one,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “These small steps go a long way in keeping pool maintenance affordable and sustainable for families within the community.”
PWD also reminds residents that installing an in-ground or above-ground pool comes with important responsibilities. Before moving forward, make sure you have the proper permits and meet local safety standards. All pools must include a recirculation and filtration system, and homes must have a double check valve on the incoming water line to prevent contamination.
“We want every pool owner to have a seamless, fun and efficient experience,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “Filtration systems not only work to keep the water clear but reduce the need for draining and refilling. In the long run, the investment can save users both water and money.”
For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469, email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.
As seen in the Long Island Press on June 13, 2025.
Annual Collaboration with POB Schools Brings Conservation Awareness to Life through Student Art
The Plainview Water District (PWD) is thrilled to announce the finalists of its annual Water Conservation Poster Contest, celebrating young artists from first grade through sixth grade who creatively illustrated the importance of protecting our water resources. Held each spring as part of the District’s Preserve Plainview initiative, the contest continues a valued partnership with the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District, combining environmental education with artistic expression.
“The Plainview Water District is incredibly proud of all the students who participated this year,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Their artwork reflects not only creativity but a clear understanding of why water conservation matters. It’s always exciting to see how each student brings their own perspective to such an important topic.”

The winners for this year’s water conservation poster contest are as follows:
- Grade 1
- First Place – Chloe Feng
- Second Place – Sophie Chong
- Third Place – Tiffany Liang
- Grade 2
- First Place – Sydnie Plotkin
- Second Place – Emeline Tong
- Third Place – Michaela Bednarik
- Grade 3
- First Place – Fiona Reilly
- Second Place – Aarohi Gawde
- Third Place – Andrea Wang
- Grade 4
- First Place – Mikaela Krain
- Second Place – Benjamin Amaturo
- Third Place – Anastasia Kanes
- Grade 5
- First Place – Dana Yoon
- Second Place – Fiona Yang
- Grade 6
- First Place – Anastasia Lin
- Second Place – Kaitlyn Chen
“Year after year, we’re impressed by the enthusiasm and effort these students put into their work,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Their posters show that they’re learning about water conservation in a meaningful way. We’re grateful for our partnership with the POB schools and the opportunity to support this educational experience.”
The winners of the water conservation poster contest are selected after deliberation from the PWD’s Board of Commissioners on categories including creativity, design, and overall message. This year, the District collected submissions from students and the finalists were recognized at an award ceremony, which the PWD held on June 5, 2025 at its headquarters.
“The poster contest is one of the highlights of our year,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how students interpret the concept of water conservation and show that through their art. We hope this sparks lifelong habits of sustainability—and reminds their families, too, that small actions make a big difference.”
For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469, email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.