Press Release  Significant Drought Conditions Declared for Islands Region in Massachusetts

BOSTON — Following two months of below-normal precipitation, low groundwater levels since June, and below-average temperatures, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared today a Level 2-Significant Drought in the Islands Region of Massachusetts. All other regions of the state – Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, Northeast, Southeast, and Cape Cod regions – remain in Level 0-Normal conditions. The decision to declare was informed by recommendations by the Drought Management Task Force (DMTF), which included discussions about groundwater in the Islands Region not fully recovering since the summer. 

“After receiving record rainfall in Western and Central Massachusetts this year, one thing is clear - no two regions are the same. We have declared a drought in the Islands because the area has not replenished its groundwater sources, unlike the rest of the state,” said EEA Secretary Tepper. “Drought conditions have lasting impacts. It will be difficult to return to normal conditions as we experience more frequent, longer droughts. We encourage everyone to do their part and be mindful of water use.” 

A Level 2-Significant Drought, as outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, calls for convening an interagency mission group to more closely coordinate on drought assessments, impacts, and responses within state government. During Monday’s meeting, the DMTF noted there were currently no water supply concerns; however, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to provide technical assistance to communities in managing their water systems, including assistance on the use of emergency connections and water supplies. The declaration will remain in effect until water levels return to normal conditions in the region. 

Those living and working within a Level 2 – Significant Drought region, including residents utilizing a private well, are encouraged to take the following actions: 

For Regions in Level 2 – Significant Drought 

Residents and Businesses: 

• Minimize overall water use; and, 
• Follow any local water use restrictions. 

Immediate Steps for Communities: 

• Limit washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; and, 

• Establish water-use reduction targets for all water users and identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use. 

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities: 

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication; 
• Provide timely information to local residents and businesses; 
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates; 

• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply; and, 
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan. 

The Drought Management Task Force will meet again on January 9, 2024, at 10:00 am. State agencies will continue to closely monitor and assess conditions across the state, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help state, federal, and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ drought page and water conservation page.

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