PUBLIC NOTICE - LEVEL 2 DROUGHT (significant)

February 19, 2026
Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper declared the Southeast Region has worsened to a Level 2 Significant Drought. This area includes Foxborough. To help conserve this essential resource, please:

• Minimize overall water use.

• 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.

WHY WATER BANS DON'T MEAN WE'RE OUT OF WATER:

It's a common misconception that water bans in Foxborough are due to overdevelopment or a dwindling water supply. Our town has sufficient water resources to meet daily needs. However, state regulations limit how much water we can withdraw, regardless of actual availability.

Foxborough's water supply comes from local wells, and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) regulates the amount we can withdraw through permits issued under the Water Management Act. These permits set strict limits on daily and seasonal withdrawals to protect the environment and ensure sustainable water use across the state.

For example: during the summer months, water usage typically increases due to outdoor activities like lawn irrigation. To stay within our permitted withdrawal limits and comply with MassDEP regulations, we implement water use restrictions. These measures are not a reflection of water scarcity but are necessary to adhere to state-mandated withdrawal caps. MassDEP requires Foxborough to enforce water restrictions from May 1 to September 30, to manage peak demand and protect water resources. These restrictions are part of a broader effort to balance human needs with environmental conservation.

Understanding that water bans are about regulatory compliance, not water shortage, helps clarify the town's actions during the summer. We appreciate residents' cooperation in adhering to these restrictions, which play a crucial role in sustainable water management.