The Suffolk County Water Authority recently revealed its annual list of the region’s worst water guzzlers, and one name featured prominently on the list: Louise Blouin. Known for her previous role in the art media industry, including her ownership of publications like “Art + Auction” and “Modern Painter,” Blouin occupied two spots on the list. The third spot went to an address on Gin Lane, owned by Brick Church Enterprises, with Blouin listed as a director. Astonishingly, while the average home consumes 130,000 gallons of water per year, this address allegedly consumed a staggering 7.6 million gallons from July 2022 to June 2023. Blouin also owns an adjacent property on Gin Lane, which consumed an additional 4.5 million gallons during the same period. With both properties known as La Dune and currently listed for sale at $150 million, their excessive water consumption raises eyebrows.
Several other familiar names also appeared on the list of excessive water users. Glenn August from Oak Hill Advisors, Bobby Jain (ex-Millennium CIO), and billionaire hedge-fund manager Noam Gottesman were all accused of drowning their hedges with excessive water usage. Additionally, Joanna Goldman, wife of Oscar-winning screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, allegedly utilized 5.1 million gallons of water, while real estate guru Robert Taubman matched that figure.
Challenges Faced by the Authorities
The Southampton Press, which published the water consumption list, noted that the astronomical amounts of water consumed were primarily attributed to large irrigation systems or geothermal heating and cooling systems. The Suffolk County Water Authority has made efforts to address this issue by appealing to property managers of sprawling estates to reduce their lawn watering schedules. However, their success in curbing water usage has been limited. Moreover, the water authority has recently requested all customers to cut back on their water consumption due to the region facing a moderate drought. The sustainability of the community and water supply is at significant risk.
Necessary Measures for Conservation
To combat the urgent water crisis in Suffolk County, authorities have implemented measures to control excessive water usage. A tweet from the county highlighted the need for residents to limit lawn watering to specific days, alternating between even and odd days. Additionally, property owners are urged to inspect their sprinkler heads regularly to identify and rectify any leaks promptly.
The revelations of excessive water consumption in Suffolk County have shed light on the irresponsible usage of this precious resource by notable figures in the community. Urgent action is required to address the water crisis in the region, and the cooperation of all residents and property owners is vital to ensure the sustainability of the community’s water supply.