HOPKINTON: The Department of Public Works (DPW) is requiring that residents on the municipal water system turn off lawn sprinklers to help preserve water supplies for essential daily needs and fire protection.
It’s been over a month since our area has experienced any significant rainfall, resulting in decreased groundwater levels and slower aquifer recharge. Water production has been reduced, while consumption remains high. For the remainder of the summer, the extended forecast predicts continued above-average temperatures and no substantial rainfall.
As the growing season winds down, we now must require that residents on the municipal water system turn off lawn sprinklers to help preserve water supplies for essential daily needs and fire protection.
The following penalties apply to violations of this Mandatory State of Water Supply Conservation:
- First offense – written warning
- Second offense – $100 fine
- Third offense and beyond – water service may be suspended
Visit MassDEP’s website for further information on water conservation and what you can do to reduce your water use.
The Department of Public Works appreciates your observation of this Mandatory Action.
I understand no lawn watering as this is a serious issue. Are we still able to water gardens directly with a hose? Just hoping not to lose the last of my meager crops.
Shouldn’t residents not on the municipal water system also stop watering lawns because the below ground aquifers feed both private and municipal levels?