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Water Restrictions

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1. We've recently had rain. Is the water ban still in effect?

YES! Although we have had some precipitation, our reservoir and groundwater levels are still below normal. We are continuing to monitor both. When water levels return to normal with a steady rate of recharge, the ban will be lifted.

2. When did the voluntary ban go into effect?

A voluntary water ban was issued by Temporary Town Manager, Peter Hechenbleikner on July 25, 2016.

3. Why is there a water ban in effect?

The Connecticut River Region is in an official Drought Watch issued by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. For the past five months the region has received significantly less rainfall than normal. Very little rainfall after a winter with little precipitation means that we are in a period with extremely low groundwater and stream flow levels.

4. When did the mandatory water ban go in to effect?

The Amherst Select Board authorized Interim Town Manager David Ziomek to issue a mandatory water ban that went into effect as of 12:01 am on Friday, August 19, 2016.

5. How serious is the water situation in Amherst?

The situation is fairly serious with little to no precipitation in the forecast for the next several weeks. Residents, business owners, students and individuals employed within the town are being asked to do all they can to help conserve as much water as possible to ensure adequate supply over the next few months.

6. Where does our water come from?

Amherst receives its potable water from the Atkins Reservoir, two small reservoirs in Pelham and a series of wells within Lawrence Swamp. Our water system mixes both the well and reservoir water.

7. Can Amherst get its water from other sources such as the Quabbin Reservoir, another community or the Connecticut River?

No – it is not possible to receive water from the Quabbin or another community as no infrastructure exists to support the transfer of water from these locations. In addition, other communities are experiencing the drought as well. The water in the Connecticut River does not meet drinking water standards.

8. Is it possible for the Town to truck water in by tankers?

It is not financially feasible to transport water in to the community and tankers do not hold sufficient quantities to serve the entire Town’s needs.

9. How much water does the Town use on a daily basis?

The Town uses between 3.3 to 3.5 million gallons of water per day.

10. Will my efforts to save water make any difference?

YES!! Absolutely. Turning off water when brushing teeth or shaving can save 10 gallons/person/day. Installing a high efficiency toilet can save 19 gallons/person/day. Washing full loads of clothes can save 15-45 gallons/load and washing full loads of dishes in the dishwasher can save 5-15 gallons/load.

11. Are other areas in the state affected?

Yes. The majority of the state is being impacted by these extremely dry conditions. Different regions are at different levels of draught status. Regions in the greater Boston area are under an Emergency Level drought situation.

12. Are droughts typical in New England?

Not typical - at least not to the extent of the current drought this region is experiencing. However, droughts in New England are not unprecedented. The last extensive Drought Watch occurred in the Connecticut River region from February – May in 2002 which was then upgraded to an Advisory from June – October of that year.

13. How long will the ban last?

When groundwater and surface water levels return to normal or have the ability to continue to recharge, the ban will be lifted.

14. May I water my vegetable garden?

You may water your garden with a handheld hose or watering can. It is best to do so before 9 AM or after 5 PM so that less water is lost through evaporation. Please do not water annual or perennial plants.

15. May I water my lawn?

No – watering lawns is prohibited during the water ban.

16. May I wash my car?

Only at a commercial facility (where the water typically gets re-used). You may not use a hose or wash your car in a non-commercial facility.

17. May I fill my pool?

No. You may not fill your pool while the ban is in effect.

18. May farmers use water?

Farmers may use water for commercial crops and livestock.

19. Will I be fined if I am caught using water in violation of the ban?

Yes. The Amherst Select Board voted to impose a fining structure for those who violate the ban. An initial violation will result in a warning. Fines for violations under M.G.L. c.40, §21D shall be $50.00 for the first offense and $100.00 for each subsequent violation. Each day a violation occurs or continues will constitute a separate offense. The additional language includes a provision which grants the Superintendent of Public Works, Police Chief and Building Commissioner the ability to impose enforcement.

20. What has the Town done to reduce its water consumption?

The Town of Amherst has stopped watering its recreation fields, town commons and parks. It has also rescheduled projects where high volumes of water would be used. In addition, DPW staff are checking for leaks in pipes at the Waste Water Treatment Plant and at the Water Treatment Plant. Town staff (including the Fire Department) have stopped washing vehicles. Pool water from the Mill River and War Memorial pools is being re-used to water the downtown flower baskets.

21. Is the Town working with the business community on this issue?

The Town is working with both the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and the Amherst Business Improvement District on ways to outreach and communicate to the business community about the current drought situation and the importance of implementing immediate water conservation efforts.

22. Are Amherst College, Hampshire College and the University of Massachusetts taking steps to reduce their water usage?

Yes, all three institutions of higher education have strategies in place to reduce their consumption of water. Each has notified students, parents, faculty and staff about the water ban and have implemented operational measures that reduce their institution’s overall water usage. In addition, they are meeting with town officials on a weekly basis to discuss the situation, share resources and educate one another about their respective actions.

23. What can I do to help reduce my water usage?

Click on the link for information on Water Conservation Tips.