Is our water supply truly stressed?

Effective Changes

The truth is that numerous recent changes to the ordinances that govern our water supply have been successful in reducing the stress to our water supply: 

  1. Changes to the in-ground sprinkler ordinance that moved the town from an odd-even watering strategy to one where it is only permitted twice a week 
  2. Changes to our rate structure that reward conservation of water
  3. Public education program 

These changes have all made a difference and we, as a community, are using less water during the peak summer period when supply can truly get stressed. Peak water demand is significantly lower than the 2005 peak, but residential water demand still exceeds the 65 gallons per capita, per day goal set in the Rhode Island Water Use Efficiency Act.

New Water Service Area Designations

Additionally, changes made recently to the Town’s identified “Water Service Area”, which corresponds to locations where new water mains may be allowed, has been able to help us rein in uncontrolled growth that our water distribution system could not support. This, of course, is not to say that we should now “rest on our laurels”. The Water Department and the community need to continue our efforts and diligently act as good stewards for this, our most critical resource.

Show All Answers

1. I've Heard recent changes have been made to our groundwater protection? Can you explain and does this better preserve this vital resource?
2. What is the difference between the two overlay zones, and what does that mean?
3. Why isn’t there a groundwater map on the website that is accurate and up to date?
4. Why would the Water Department want to put the groundwater reservoir at risk?
5. Is our water supply truly stressed?