GREENFIELD, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — While the state has not declared a drought, the city of Greenfield is asking residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce their water consumption. The city recommends postponing nonessential water uses, limit outdoor watering, taking shorter showers, flushing the toilet less regularly and only running full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher.
From the city of Greenfield:
Greenfield Asks Residents to Help Save Water Amidst Dry Conditions
GREENFIELD, MA – With recent dry weather conditions impacting local water levels, the City of Greenfield is
asking all residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce their water consumption. These measures are being
requested to ensure a sustainable water supply for all community members.
While the State has not issued a drought condition or recommendation, Greenfield’s Department of Public
Works (DPW) has stopped drawing water from the Green River due to low levels, and is taking proactive steps to
manage the city’s water resources responsibly. Voluntary conservation efforts from the public will play a crucial
role in preventing more restrictive measures in the future.
“Rest assured all our facilities are fully capable of supplying water for firefighting and related emergencies, and
the Town’s water quality is, as always, within the standards imposed by the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection and the Environmental Protection Agency,” said Water Facilities Superintendent Mark
Holley.
“We are asking the community to work with us to conserve this vital resource,” said Mayor Ginny Desorgher.
“Every small action makes a big difference. By being mindful of our water usage now, we can help protect our
water supply for the weeks and months to come.”
The city recommends the following simple steps for water conservation:
• Postpone non-essential use: Wait until water levels recover to perform activities like washing cars.
• Limit outdoor watering: Water lawns and gardens only when necessary, and do so during the early
morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
• Take shorter showers: Cutting a shower by just a few minutes can save a significant amount of water.
• Minimize toilet flushing: A single toilet flush can use between 1 and 7 gallons of water. Try to flush less
regularly.
• Run full loads: Only run dishwashers and washing machines when they are completely full.
The City of Greenfield will continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to the public as
needed. For more water conservation tips, please visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/drought-tips-tools-
resources#tips-for-saving-water.
