The Topsfield Water Department has instituted a Mandatory Water Ban effective June 11, 2009.  The restrictions are required because the average daily stream flow for the Ipswich River, as recorded at the United States Geological Survey's Ipswich Gauge Station, has fallen below 52.5 cubic feet per second for three consecutive days.  Flows below this minimum level are not adequate to support fish and other river-dependent life.  The following restrictions apply to all water customers and private well owners in the Town of Topsfield:

• Nonessential outdoor water use is limited to hand-held hoses or buckets only before 9 A.M. or after 5 P.M. each day.
• The use of automatic irrigation systems at any time is strictly prohibited.
• Essential outdoor water use is permitted and includes those uses that have a health or safety impact, are required by regulation or are needed to meet the core functions of a business or organization.

In addition to curtailing outdoor use the Water Department encourages the following conservation measures:

• Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full.
• Fix any leaks around the house.
• Install water efficient toilets, faucets and shower heads.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator, rather than running the faucet.
• Consider replacing water intensive lawns with a xeriscape (low water demand) flower garden.

The Water Department has several guide books that are available to residents.  Please call us at (978) 887-1518 for more information.

The Town's Water Restriction By-law includes the following penalties for violating the restrictions:

First Violation:	Warning
Second Violation	$50.00
Third Violation	$100.00
Fourth and subsequent violations:	$300.00
Each day of violation constitutes a separate offense

Please call the Water Department at (978) 887-1517 if you have any questions.