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Home · Government · Town Departments · Water Department · Water Department Documents · Water Conservation
Water Conservation
Water Conservation

Summer is almost upon us and with the great weather comes increased outdoor water usage.   I’m sure many of you still remember last summer’s hot and dry conditions and higher water bills.  In fact, per capita water usage was up from 59 gallons per day in 2009 to 74 gallons per day in 2010.  It’s a good time to think about water conservation not only to protect our drinking water sources – the Beaver and Stony Brook aquifers, but to prevent water bill sticker shock.   Proper lawn irrigation can significantly reduce the amount of water used.   Below are some tips:

  • Resist the urge to overwater!  Established lawns only need about 1 inch of water per week.  Overwatering can weaken the roots and promote weed growth.  New lawns will need to be watered more frequently, which is why it is not ideal to start one in the middle of the summer.
  
  • Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.  Watering at night will also achieve reduced evaporation, but may lead to fungal disease.
  • Pavement doesn’t need water!  Make sure your sprinklers are adjusted to keep the spray on the grass.  
  • Plant drought-resistant grasses.   It is a good idea to consult with a lawncare specialist to determine which type is best.  There are several specialty brands available specifically for drought-resistance and low maintenance.
  • Create landscapes with plants that are drought-resistant or require little water.
  • Check your irrigation system for leaks.  Even small leaks can result in significant water loss and higher bills.
  • Use rainbarrels to harvest free water for gardening.   My 55 gallon barrel filled up in a little more than a day of moderate rain draining off a small roof!
Westford maintains voluntary odd-even water restrictions from May 1 to October 31.  With everyone’s cooperation this will help maintain our water supply at a sufficient level, and prevent the need for implementation of more restrictive conservation measures.  However, drought conditions or unacceptable water use levels may compel the Water Department to implement mandatory water restrictions.    

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