Cambridge Drought Status Improves; Now Level 1 - Mild Drought

The Cambridge Water Department (CWD) wants to make the Cambridge community aware of a change in the water drought status.

The State has announced that Cambridge and the Northeast Region of the Commonwealth has improved from a Level 2- Significant Drought to a Level 1 – Mild Drought.

Though this weekend's rain was extremely helpful in alleviating long-term dry conditions, a substantial amount of precipitation is needed to increase ground water levels and to fully replenish our reservoirs. Under a level 1 drought, some essential outdoor water restrictions remain in place. 

Below are recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within a Level 1 – Mild Drought, including those utilizing a private well.

For Regions in Level 1 – Mild Drought 

• Minimize overall water use;
• Limit outdoor watering to one day per week from 5:00 PM to 9:00 AM, or less frequently if required by your water supplier;
• Plant only local and drought-resistant species;
• Fix indoor leaks, such as from toilets, faucets, and showers, which result in more than 60 percent of indoor use;
• For larger buildings and businesses, conduct water audits to identify areas of leaks and potential water conservation opportunities;
• Minimize lawn sizes; and,
• Harvest rainwater for outdoor watering.

For questions or more information, please contact the Cambridge Water Department at 617-349-4770, email CWD@cambridgema.gov or visit: https://www.cambridgema.gov/Water.