How does leaking water infrastructure impact urban ecosystems?
I live in New York City, which recently experienced a record spell of dry weather. I read that it’s estimated that 15% of the city’s drinking water usage is lost through leaking infrastructure, approximately 155 million gallons a day (https://nysfocus.com/2024/11/27/new-york-water-leaks-drought).
Was this “lost” water theoretically irrigating the urban forest and offsetting the impact of the drought? Has there been any research anyone could share that has been conducted on the topic? Apologies if there is a better subreddit to approach with this question.