Severe Drought Prompts Water Ban In Falmouth

FALMOUTH, MA — The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved a mandatory water ban at Monday's meeting as the state, and Barnstable County, face severe drought conditions.

All irrigation of outdoor areas will be prohibited except for watering by hand once the ban goes into effect on Aug. 15.

Town officials cited several reasons for the ban, including current weather conditions. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the entirety of Barnstable County is in the middle of a severe drought.

With the hot and dry conditions, outdoor water demands placed the town in "peak demand mode", which is causing turbidity, or water clarity, issues for treated water.

"In peak demand mode we rely on our pumps for fire protection meaning that if the pumps fail there could be an immediate drop in pressure," officials said.

"This is not sustainable and exposes us to potential fire flow and water quality failures."

Officials have asked those who use well water or well irrigation to post a "conspicuous sign" that's visible from the street, in the hopes that it would stop violations from being reported.

Those who repeatedly violate the water ban face potential water shut offs, officials said.

The drought in Barnstable County has also resulted in warnings from officials for things like fires.

"Remember to be cautious when Camping, Grilling, or using any open flame outdoors: BrushFires will start easily and spread quickly," the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services recently shared.

The Barnstable County Government also recently shared tips for water conservation during the drought. Click here for the full list.