MASSACHUSETTS DROUGHT ALERT

DROUGHT STATUS
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs has declared a Level 2—Significant Drought in the Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast and Southeast Regions, and a Level 1 – Mild Drought in the Western and Islands Regions. Cape Cod is Normal.

CURRENT CONDITIONS
With over four months of below normal rainfall, drought has spread to 90% of the state, and intensified in many regions. Streamflow is severely impacted with dry stream beds and ponding visible in many locations. Fire danger especially in the northern half of the state is steadily on the rise, with noticeable drought stress on foliage in shrubs and grasses. Also, drought conditions are starting to impact our farms, with losses in soil moisture, more heavy irrigation needed in some areas due to lack of precipitation, and some initial signs of crop loss.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Be mindful of your water use to ensure essential needs, such as drinking water and fire protection, are being met, and habitats have enough water to support their natural functions. Exercise caution when using charcoal grills, backyard fire pits, & other open flame outdoor activities to prevent outdoor fires.

In Level 2-Significant Drought Areas

Residents & Businesses:

• Minimize water use
• Limit outdoor watering to hand-held 5:00 pm - 9:00 am• Conserve water indoors
• Fix Leaks
• Be careful w outdoor flames

Cities & Towns:

• Limit outdoor watering to at least hand-held only 5:00 pm - 9:00 am
• Limit new landscapes and outdoor washing
• Implement drought or seasonal water rates
• Establish water use reduction targets
• Establish a leak detection program

Learn more at www.mass.gov/ma-drought-management

For water conservation information, go to www.mass.gov/conservemawater