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Concord Public Works warns of heightened summer water demand; Level 1 watering restriction in effect
Summary
Water and sewer staff said Concord is in a Level 1 lawn-watering restriction and may need to escalate to Level 2 if dry weather persists because the Nagog intake remains partially offline; the commission discussed outreach, enforcement tools and the town’s stoplight demand-management system.
The Town of Concord’s Public Works Commission heard a detailed briefing on seasonal demand management on June 7, with staff urging residents to follow a Level 1 lawn‑watering restriction and describing contingency steps if hot, dry conditions continue.
Melissa Simontini, Concord’s water-sewer environmental regulatory coordinator, said the town uses a stoplight-style demand-management plan that asks residents to “slow down” at Level 1 and restricts lawn watering more tightly at Level 2. “Level 1 is a lawn watering restriction, which we are currently in, saying, hey, slow down. We need your help to be responsible and to maintain our supply,” Simontini said.
Simontini and other staff reviewed outreach tools — news-and-notices push messages, QR-linked graphics, scrolling message boards, the library’s message board and a list of over 30 local irrigation providers who receive direct notices — to reach residents quickly. The department is prepared to use the town’s spotlight feature and CodeRED emergency alerts for targeted messaging.
Staff reported average daily demand around 2 million gallons, with pumping near 2.5 million gallons per day and total pumping capacity near 3 million. Nagog intake — a planned supply source under repair — is not yet fully operational. Staff said ongoing mitigation work may allow a partial return of Nagog at roughly 0.5 million gallons per day if turbidity and bacteria checks are satisfactory, but cautioned that the town may need to declare Level 2 water restrictions if rain does not arrive.
Commissioners discussed the mechanics and enforcement of the restrictions, including notifying irrigation providers and possible fines for repeat violations. Staff emphasized the outreach-first approach and said hydrant maintenance and targeted hydrant flushing can continue for water-quality reasons even during restrictions. Simontini said the commission would be informed if staff recommend escalating the restriction level.
The briefing also covered water-quality reporting plans and an upcoming report that the town will publicize ahead of the peak summer season. Staff said they will coordinate with the sustainability director and other community partners to maximize compliance and avoid emergency declarations if possible.
