WAYLAND, MA — The town is issuing mandatory outdoor water use restrictions due to a mechanical issue at the Baldwin Pond Treatment Plant.
Wayland's DPW Water Division announced on Thursday that the town has activated its emergency connection with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to supplement local water supplies as needed.
During this time, all nonessential outdoor water use must be limited to make sure there are water levels in tanks for fire protection and essential consumption.
The restrictions are in accordance with Section 190-4 of the Town of Wayland By-Laws, Wayland’s Department of Environmental Protection Water Management Act Permit, and an Emergency Declaration issued by MassDEP on Wednesday.
Wayland activated its emergency connection with the MWRA. Officials say the backup connection provides the Town with more flexible and resilient options for delivering safe, clean drinking water during the ongoing treatment plant issue.
Under the restrictions, residents are not allowed to use underground automatic sprinkler systems and other forms of nonessential outdoor water use. The restrictions will remain in effect until repairs at the Baldwin Pond Treatment Plant are completed.
These nonessential outdoor water uses are prohibited:
These activities are permitted during mandatory restrictions:
Violators are subject to a written warning from the DPW Director or designee on a first offense; a $100 fine and written notification by certified and regular mail warning that additional violations may result in termination of water service on a second offense; and a notice of termination of water service or a fine of more than $275 for third and subsequent offenses.
MWRA treats its water differently from Wayland in two key ways.
MWRA uses chloramine, which is a mixture of chlorine and ammonia, instead of free chlorine. The agency also uses water with a higher pH level, approximately 9 to 9.5, to help prevent corrosion and reduce lead exposure.
Town officials say chloraminated water is safe for drinking, cooking, bathing and other household uses and meets all EPA standards.
Chloramine has been used in water treatment for nearly 100 years and by MWRA since the 1930s. More than one in five Americans, including most residents in the Boston area, receive water treated with chloramine, the town said.
Wayland officials said that those with certain medical conditions or those who maintain exotic fish or aquatic animals are encouraged to review additional guidance regarding chloramine.
Anyone with additional questions may contact the Wayland Department of Public Works at (508) 358-3672.
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