Yarmouth remains in Level 2 drought; town urges pause on automatic outdoor watering

The Yarmouth region remains in a Level 2 drought designation, the town's DPW director told the Board of Health on July 6, prompting a reminder that automatic outdoor irrigation systems are restricted at this level.

What Level 2 means: Jeff Colby, director of public works, said the state monitors drought levels monthly and that Level 2 restricts nonessential outdoor water use, in particular automatic irrigation systems. "At this level for us, they have said that automatic sprinkler systems are not allowed," Colby said. Drip irrigation and handheld watering for gardens remain permitted.

Why it matters: Groundwater and precipitation in the region remain below normal for the season, and the town's drinking-water permit obliges compliance with state drought conditions. Colby said the town will continue education efforts (website updates, bill inserts and A-frame signs at public facilities) and that the water commissioners (select board) retain enforcement authority and can pursue fines under town bylaws if necessary.

Community outreach and next steps: The DPW and health staff plan targeted outreach (website notices, transfer-station signage and bill notifications) and encouraged residents to contact the water department with specific reports of noncompliance. Colby noted his office will post updates when the state's drought designation changes.

Ending: Residents should suspend automatic irrigation and favor drip or handheld watering. The town will continue monitoring and outreach and will escalate enforcement if violations continue to threaten water supply reliability.