Massachusetts Irrigation Program

Massachusetts drought map showing Level 2 Significant Drought across most regions and Level 3 Critical Drought in the Northeast Region as of July 9, 2026

Massachusetts Drought Status

The Massachusetts drought status map has designated all regions with Aquarion water systems in drought. Let's use our water resources wisely to ensure adequate supplies for drinking, fire protection, and overall public health.

Aquarion Water Systems with Nonessential Outdoor Water Use Restrictions

For Millbury and Oxford Customers

Updated May 11, 2026
Drought Level - Level 2 Significant Drought

Nonessential outdoor water use is banned
Watering of ornamentals and flower gardens with drip irrigation, handheld hoses, or watering cans is permitted

For Dover (Including Springdale Farms) Customers

Updated July 1, 2026
Drought Level - Level 2 Significant Drought

Limited nonessential outdoor water use with handheld hoses or watering cans is permitted after 5:00 pm or before 9:00 am.
Limit aligns with Town of Dover limits on nonessential outdoor water use and Massachusetts Drought Management Plan.

For Ponds of Plymouth Customers

Updated June 15, 2026
Drought Level - Level 2 Significant Drought

Nonessential outdoor water use is allowed one day per week
Water Management Act (WMA) permits limit nonessential outdoor water use to one day per week when residential gallons per capita per day (rgpcd) use exceeds 65 gallons per capita per day in the prior year and a drought is declared for the region

Last Digit of Your Address Number	Nonessential Outdoor Water Use Is Allowed Only at the Following Times
0, 2, 4, 6 or 8 (even numbers)	Sunday Before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm
1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 (odd numbers)	Saturday Before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm
No address number	Sunday Before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm

For Pinehills Customers

Updated June 15, 2026
Drought Level - Level 2 Significant Drought

Nonessential outdoor water use is allowed two days per week

Last Digit of Your Address Number	Nonessential Outdoor Water Use Is Allowed Only at the Following Times
0, 2, 4, 6 or 8 (even numbers)	Sunday & Wednesday Before 7:00 am and after 7:00 pm
1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 (odd numbers)	Saturday & Tuesday Before 7:00 am and after 7:00 pm
No address number	Sunday & Wednesday Before 7:00 am and after 7:00 pm

For Sheffield Customers

Updated July 15, 2026
Drought Level - Level 2 Significant Drought

Nonessential Outdoor Water Use (NOWU) is banned, except that watering of ornamentals and flower gardens with drip irrigation, handheld hoses, or watering cans is permitted.

Tips for Watering Your Lawn and Garden

Landscapes can thrive with water twice a week or even less.

Learn More