30 August, 2016
The Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary has issued a drought warning for our area, which means severe drought conditions persist. Based on this declaration, Mass DEP and the Hopkinton Emergency Management Team recommend restrictions on outdoor use. Effective immediately, we have revised the water use restriction to prohibit All Outdoor Use except watering of flowers, gardens and shrubs by handheld means or by drip irrigation before 9AM and after 5PM and that which is necessary for the following; For Health or safety reasons; the production of food and fiber; the maintenance of livestock; or to meet core functions of a business.
We continue to receive very little rain to help recharge our aquifers and long term forecasts call for above average temperatures and below normal precipitation through December. It is imperative that everyone comply with these restrictions. This is necessary to ensure a safe and adequate supply for our daily essential needs and for firefighting capabilities. These restrictions only pertain to users of the municipal water system. However, we encourage those with private wells to use water just as judiciously, to avoid your well going dry. We need everyone’s strict adherence and cooperation in this important matter to sustain the town water supply through these persistent drought conditions. Please note that if conditions continue to worsen, an all outdoor ban may be enacted.
Updates will be provided as necessary, through the town’s web website, www.hopkintonma.gov\water, local newspapers, H-CAM TV and the CodeRed phone call system. For instantaneous updates please go to www.hopkintonma.gov/home/about/follow and select water and sewer notices and follow us on our Twitter feed @hopkintonwater.
We thank you for your cooperation with this important matter Information will also be posted on the water use restriction signs located throughout town.
Location of Water Use Restriction Signs
1. Main St. @ lights
2. West Main @ Wood St. West Bound
3. Wood St. @ Westboro Line East Bound
4. Pond & Spring Intersection
5. South & West Main Intersection West Bound
6. West Main @ Pleasant East Bound
7. West Main @ School West Bound
8. Ash @ Park South Bound
9. Hayden Rowe @ Tennis Courts South Bound
10. Hayden Rowe @ Chestnut North Bound
11. East Main St. @ TJ’S West Bound
Thank you.
Eric Carty
Water and Sewer Manager
