HopNews
Hopkinton Extends Mandatory Water Supply Conservation
Hopkinton, through its Director of Public Works, declares a continuation of the Mandatory State of Water Supply Conservation for all customers connected to the municipal water system.
We are currently in a critical drought status as of March 9, 2026. Drought conditions have continued in our region since August 2025. This Water Use Restriction ensures an adequate water supply for all water users. No outdoor, non-essential use is allowed for all customers connected to the municipal water system until the Mandatory Action is terminated.
Watering lawns, vehicle washing, pool filling, and all other non-essential uses are prohibited.
This Mandatory Action is authorized by the Town Bylaws, Chapter 199, Article II, Section 199-6: Restricted Water Uses.
The Department of Public Works appreciates your patience and support.
More information on this Mandatory Action is available in the attached Public Notice and on the Town’s website.
On Monday March 9th I was walking through the Hopkinton State Park. The water level in the reservoir appeared to be at a high level, and water was being allowed to drain from the reservoir through the spillway. Why does this happen during a “critical drought status”?
Level of water in the reservoir does not reflect the content of water in the aquifer. Snow melt runoff can elevate the amount of water in the reservoir temporarily, but after the runoff the levels can assume drought levels. If you make a mount in a sandbox, then pour a bucket of water on it. The bulk of the water will flow down the sides of the mound will very little soaking in. And if the ground has any frost in it the water is barred from penetrating.