Berkshire County in Mild Drought
BOSTON — Following nearly six months of below-normal precipitation, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared that the Connecticut River Valley and Western regions still have their previous statuses: Level 2 – Significant and Level – 1 Mild Drought.
The Central and Northeast regions have been raised to a Level – 3 Critical Drought.
The Southeast, Cape and Islands regions have been elevated to a Level – 2 Significant Drought.
As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 3 – Critical Drought, Level – 2 Significant Drought, and a Level – 1 Mild Drought require detailed monitoring of drought conditions. These levels also require ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies to implement 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.
"Even with winter weather, several regions in our state are facing below-average precipitation," said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. "To avoid overtaxing our water systems, we must prioritize indoor water conservation. It's essential that everyone follows state guidance and local water restrictions to ensure our drinking water stays available for everyone."
Over the past month, most of the state received between 1-2.5 inches of rain and snow, which is 1-13 inches below normal. Overall, most of the state has been in an 8-13 inch deficit since August. The Cape and Islands region is experiencing a 3.8-6 inch deficit in precipitation. Despite the recent rain and snowfall, streamflow and groundwater have worsened in nearly all regions, and recharge that typically occurs at this time of the year to reservoirs and groundwater lagging. 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 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 Region in Level 1 – Mild Drought
Residents and Businesses:
- Minimize overall water use;
- Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use; and,
- For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities.
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 drought and water conservation information to local residents and businesses;
- Check emergency inter-connections for water supply; and,
- Develop a local drought management plan (learn more?here).
