Drought Sparks Mandatory Outdoor Water Use Restrictions

WILMINGTON, MA — It's been a hot summer, and there hasn't been a lot of rain. Now Wilmington residents have to restrict their outdoor water use or risk banning sprinklers throughout the town entirely if the policy isn't followed.

Wilmington residents will not be allowed to use water outdoors between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sprinkler systems may only be used once a week, outside of the restricted time frame.

Violation of the water restrictions will result in a minimum fine of $50 per day. The Water Department says they could institute a full outdoor watering ban in the future if conditions continue.

These restrictions come after Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beth Card declared a Level 3-Critical Drought in the Northeast and Central Regions of the state.

"As the state endures high temperatures and little precipitation, now more than ever it is critical that we all practice water conservation methods across the Commonwealth," said Card. "Minimizing water use now, especially in areas like the Millers and Nashua River watersheds, will allow local water supply systems and natural habitats to rebound more quickly, and will also ensure water resources are available for essential needs, such as drinking water and fire protection."

Since the start of July 2022, hydrological conditions have further declined across Massachusetts, and the entire state is under experiencing drought conditions. Areas of higher concern are the Millers River Watershed in the Central Region and the Nashua River Watershed in the Northeast and Central Regions. The two watersheds are particularly impacted due to greater precipitation deficits and impacts to streamflow, and a higher extent of evapotranspiration.

Massachusetts is also experiencing dry streambeds, ponding, and diminished extent of streams in many watersheds leading to lack of flow, increased turbidity, and increase in growth of plants and algae in the water. Furthermore, groundwater, which is a slow reacting index, is starting to be impacted in many regions. Fire activity has increased across the eastern half of the state as drought conditions have set in, and wildfires in remote areas with delayed response are now burning deep into the organic soil layers.

"As the hot temperatures continue and drought conditions worsen, residents can assist by following any local water restrictions for their area and minimizing indoor and outdoor water usage," said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Acting Director Dawn Brantley. "Given the dry conditions, residents are urged to be cautious around BBQs, campfires and other outdoor activities to prevent brush and forest fires."

The Drought Management Task Force will meet again on Monday, August 8 to reevaluate conditions. For further information on water conservation click here.