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MILLBURY, Mass. – May 19, 2026 – Aquarion Water Company today announced that drought conditions have intensified across the region and urges Millbury and Oxford customers to comply with updated mandatory restrictions. Customer cooperation helps to ensure a sustainable drinking water supply, protect natural resources, and comply with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection requirements for the region’s current drought level.

Nonessential water use is now banned. Nonessential water use includes sprinkler- and automatic-irrigation of lawns, vehicle washing, and washing of exterior building surfaces, parking lots, and driveways. Watering of plants and gardens is allowed using drip irrigation, a hand-held hose, or a watering can.

Aquarion recommends several ways to use water wisely inside and outside the home:

• Repair water leaks. Check your toilet for leaks by placing a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If food coloring appears in the bowl after 15 minutes, the tank mechanism needs repair
• Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators
• Turn off the water while shaving, brushing your teeth, and washing your face or hands
• Use a broom or blower instead of water to clean decks, driveways, and sidewalks
• Allow grass to grow longer. Taller grass shades itself, is healthier, and requires less water
• Use a rain barrel to fill watering cans, connect a garden hose, feed a drip irrigation system, and for other outdoor chores

For the latest information about these mandatory restrictions, visit www.aquarionwater.com/watering.

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