VOLUNTARY OUTSIDE WATER REDUCTION REQUESTED

WELLESLEY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WATER & SEWER DIVISION VOLUNTARY OUTSIDE WATER REDUCTION REQUESTED

Help reduce lawn irrigation water use!

Due to above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall, the Town is asking for a voluntary reduction in outdoor water use. Our actions can help prevent the need for a mandatory outdoor watering ban if dry conditions persist in the coming days and weeks. The Wellesley Dept. of Public Works Water & Sewer ask us to be mindful of the amount of water used, to be proactive in reducing or eliminating outdoor water use, to reduce indoor water use, and to address plumbing leaks as soon as possible.

Here’s how we can help right now:
• Reduce lawn irrigation by 20%. If you have an automatic timed system, please shorten watering periods by at least 20%.
• Use less than 1-inch of water per week on your lawn, and this inch should include the natural rainfall. For a typical lawn, with no rain during the week, this would mean about 2 ½ hours of irrigation per week.
• Irrigate only once per week to encourage deep rooting of the grasses.
• Direct all irrigation to appropriate areas (e.g., do not water pavement).
• Irrigate during low evaporation periods, namely between 7 pm and 8 am.

Limiting nonessential outdoor watering is one of the most effective ways to minimize the impacts of drought on water supply and the environment, and ensure there is enough water for drinking and for fire protection.

Thank you for your help and please continue to watch for further updates and information. For more information or specific questions, please email dpw@wellesleyma.gov or call the Water & Sewer Division, weekdays between 7 am and 4 pm, at 781-235-7600 ext. 3355.