Spring has barely sprung and already most of Massachusetts is experiencing drought conditions with lower than normal streamflow and precipitation. While Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket remain in normal condition, the Southeast drought region is currently at a Level 2 Significant Drought, and the Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast, and Cape Cod regions are at a Level 1 Mild Drought.
The announcement comes from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Emergency Management Agency after the Drought Management Task Force met on April 6.
“While the Commonwealth made great progress in its response to a drought period over the summer and fall of 2020, current dry conditions in the Western region emphasize the ongoing need to conserve our water resources and minimize the strain on our local water supplies,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “We will continue to monitor conditions and we encourage all residents and businesses in the Western region to minimize water use and be mindful of outdoor plantings and watering as the Commonwealth heads into the spring growing season.”
The agencies have created a fact sheet with recommended water conservation actions for residents, businesses, and municipalities here:
This announcement underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to prevent and respond to drought in Massachusetts. With dry conditions arriving as early as March, all corners of our state need to work collaboratively to ensure our natural resources and habitats are protected during what's expected to be another dry summer. Mass Rivers is advocating for a bill that would strengthen our State's drought management, read more here.