ATHOL, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — Mandatory outside water use restrictions went into effect Friday for Athol residents after the Millers River levels dropped for three consecutive days. For the duration of the water use restrictions, no nonessential water use is allowed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. including lawn watering and washing vehicles at home. When the water level rises above 186 cubic feet per second for seven consecutive days, the restrictions will be lifted.
From the Athol Department of Public Works:
Athol Water Department – Mandatory Water Use Restriction
Effective July 5, 2024 based on stream flow of the Millers River recorded at the river gauge located in Erving, MA dropping to below 186 cubic feet per second for more than three consecutive days. Effective immediately, and in accordance with Athol’s Water Use Restriction By-law and Water Management Act Permit, we are required to implement the following mandatory outside water use restriction.
No nonessential water use allowed between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Examples of nonessential outdoor water use include watering and irrigation of lawns, washing of vehicles other than by means of a commercial car wash except as necessary for operator safety; and the washing of exterior building surfaces, parking lots, driveways or sidewalks except as necessary to apply paint, preservatives, stucco, pavement or cement.
The Athol Water Department is required (per our Water Use Restriction By-law and Water Management Act Permit issued by the Department of Environmental Protection) to enforce these restrictions until the river gauge at Erving, MA is above 186 cubic feet per second for 7 consecutive days, at which time you will be notified of the elimination of the restrictions. Thank you for your cooperation.
ATHOL DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS – WATER DIVISION