This declaration is the result of low water levels in the Town’s water storage tanks, coupled with a long term forecast that anticipates no significant rain over the next week to ten days. There is sufficient water in storage to provide fire protection at this time; however, there is a concern that irrigation demands, a water main break or a large fire could draw down the storage tanks further. The
Water Department is experiencing unprecedented water demands from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m., which is the period most automatic sprinkler systems are set to operate. The water levels in the tanks can drop by 20 feet or more in this two hour period. This high demand also leads to reduced water pressure throughout the water system and is causing discolored water in areas. By prohibiting the use of automatic sprinklers for a period of time, the Town will be able to fill the water storage tanks. The water use restrictions will be lifted as soon as possible, and we ask for your cooperation to protect the public safety. Also, as a reminder when the state of water supply conservation is lifted, outdoor water use in North Reading is always restricted to an odd/even system, where outdoor watering by water users with odd numbered addresses is restricted to odd numbered days and outdoor watering by water users with even numbered addresses is restricted to even numbered days. For more information, visit the Town web site at www.northreadingma.gov or call the Department of Public Works at (978) 357-5260. For water emergencies when Town Hall is not open, contact the Fire Department at (978) 664-3112. Additional
information on water conservation is available at the following link: |
