Precipitation Still in Short Supply

It's not just Franklin and Medway. Following nearly seven months of below-normal precipitation, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared the Connecticut River Valley region has been raised to a Level – 3 Critical Drought. The Western region has been raised to a Level – 2 Significant Drought. Critical and Significant drought conditions persist in all other regions across the state.

As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 3 – Critical Drought and a Level – 2 Significant Drought require detailed monitoring of drought conditions. These levels also require ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies to implement drought response actions such as water use restrictions. Additionally, engagement with municipalities, including local Boards of Health, is essential. This includes providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities.

“The recent rain and snowfall are a welcome reprieve from the drought we have been experiencing,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “However, it has not been enough to replenish our groundwater. As the growing season approaches, it is vital that everyone continues to follow state guidance and local water restrictions to ensure water is available for our essential needs.”

Over the past month, most of the state received between 2-4 inches of rain and snow which is 1-1.5 inches below normal. The data collected by the Drought Management Task Force (DMTF) reflects the observations made from the start of the drying conditions in August 2024 through the end of February. Overall, most of the state is in an 8-13 inches deficit since last August, with the Cape and Islands at 5-8 inches deficit. Although there has been an accumulation of snow, freezing temperatures and frozen ground have prevented snowmelt from soaking through. Despite temporary surges in streamflow from recent precipitation events, streamflow and groundwater have worsened in nearly all regions, and recharge that typically occurs at this time of the year to reservoirs and groundwater is diminished. Residents can report dry environmental conditions they are experiencing and submit photos to support state drought monitoring efforts here.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to provide technical assistance to communities on managing their water systems, including assistance on the use of emergency connections and water supplies.

It is important to note that the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water supply system is not experiencing drought conditions, as defined within its individual plan. However, private well users and other sources of water within the same river basins are impacted by the critical drought conditions. All sources of water, regardless of their location or type of withdrawal, ultimately draw from the same river basin. It is important for all users to do their part to conserve water.

For Regions in Level 2 – Significant Drought

Residents and Businesses:

• Minimize overall water use and be particularly mindful of indoor water use.
• Follow local water use restrictions
• Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use;
• For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities.

Immediate Steps for Communities/Municipalities:

• Limit or prohibit washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing.
• Establish water-use reduction targets for all water users, identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use.

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities/Municipalities:

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication, taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materials.
• Provide timely information to local residents and businesses.
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates.
• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply.
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan.