The Daily Freeman is reporting the city of Kingston has issued a drought alert in connection with lowered water levels at the Cooper Lake reservoir, according to a press release from Mayor Steve Noble’s office. The alert is the first stage of the water department’s response plan for dealing with the problem. During a drought alert, all city water customers are asked to voluntarily conserve water whenever possible. “We all use water differently, so please take a minute to think about how you can conserve,” Water Department Superintendent Matthew Dysard said in a statement. He said suggestions include taking shorter showers, running dishwashers and washing machines only when full, repairing leaky faucets and toilets, and turning off the faucet while shaving, soaping hands, and brushing teeth. Conserving is voluntary at this stage, but if the reservoir continues to drop, mandatory restrictions could be imposed, Dysard said. Noble pointed out that water levels are low despite the July 13 downpour. “We ask all of our residents to be conscientious during this time and conserve as much water as possible,” he said. The town of Williamstown, Mass., this week issued a non-essential outdoor watering restriction. The watering of lawns, public parks and recreational fields, gardens, flowers and ornamental plants has been banned until further notice. Read more in the Daily Freeman.