– Level 3 Critical Drought Declared for Groton –
Non-Essential Outdoor Water Use Now Banned
GROTON, MA – The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has declared a Level 3 – Critical Drought for the Northeast Region, which includes the Town of Groton. In accordance with the state’s Drought Management Plan, the Groton Water Department is immediately implementing a ban on all non-essential outdoor water use.
This restriction applies to all customers of the Groton public water system. Private well owners are strongly encouraged to follow the same measures, as all water sources in the region draw from shared aquifers and river basins.
Effective immediately, the following non-essential outdoor water uses are prohibited in
Groton:
- Watering of lawns, gardens, trees, shrubs, or other landscaping by any method (including sprinklers, hoses, or irrigation systems)
- Installation of new sod, seeding, or new landscaping
- Washing of personal vehicles, boats, trailers, or other equipment
- Washing of hard surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, patios, decks, or building siding/exteriors
- Filling or topping off swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs, or decorative water features (except minimal maintenance to prevent structural damage, preferably with a cover in place)
Essential water uses for public health and safety, such as firefighting, drinking water, sanitation, and critical municipal operations, remain permitted.
The Town’s existing Mandatory Odd/Even Water Conservation Program is superseded by these stricter Level 3 restrictions.
Residents are also urged to conserve water indoors by:
- Taking shorter showers and avoiding baths
- Running dishwashers and washing machines only when full
- Fixing leaks immediately (toilets, faucets, and pipes)
- Not letting water run while brushing teeth or shaving
- Using water-efficient fixtures and appliances where possible
Enforcement: Violations may result in warnings, fines, or other penalties under the Town’s water use restriction bylaws. The Water Department will actively monitor compliance. The state Drought Management Task Force will meet again on July 8, 2026, to reassess conditions. The Town will issue updates as needed.
For full details, conservation tips, and the latest state information, visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/drought-status
Contact the Groton Water Department at (978) 448-1122 or water@grotonma.gov with any questions.
The Town of Groton appreciates the cooperation of all residents and businesses as we work together to protect our water resources during this critical drought.
