Good morning, Hopkinton! Welcome to the daily update we call Hopkinton Today — a quick recap of yesterday’s news, highlights of what’s on tap, and a photo of the day.

Town remains in drought conditions as snow continues to accumulate

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Despite a rash of recent snowstorms that have blanketed Hopkinton in several inches of snow, there is no relief to ongoing drought conditions.

According to information the Department of Public Works shared on Facebook from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, the majority of the state still is dealing with significant drought conditions.

“The state moved our area back up into critical from the previous distinction of moderate,” said Water/Sewer Department manager Eric Carty.

“We have not seen much recharge,” he noted. Current measurements put the town at 8 inches below normal groundwater levels.

The lack of recharge has left the town’s wells unable to pump at capacity, forcing them to pull from deeper in the aquifers. This also pulls up sediments and elements like iron and manganese, which affect water quality.

Carty explained that the town saw some groundwater come back into the aquifers in December, but frost has prevented any more from soaking into the ground. He said there are areas of town where the frost measures up to 3 feet deep.

“It’s so cold [the snow] is basically all sitting on top of the ground right now,” Carty said.

Another factor impacting the replenishment of the town’s aquifers is the quality of snow recent storms have deposited. Carty claimed the snow is “light and fluffy and not very moisture-laden.”

Hopkinton’s best hopes for groundwater recharge will come from rain in the spring. Otherwise, the town will be starting from a deficit as the warmer months approach.

“We’re going to hope for a nice, wet spring and a nice, slow melt,” Carty said.

Latest News

The Planning Board voted Monday night to assess further fines and a potential halt to construction for The Trails after representatives from the housing development appeared unwilling to resolve alleged stormwater damage on Wilson Street.

Health Director Shaun McAuliffe reported to the Board of Health on Monday that the town had agreed to accept the Health Department’s budget for FY 26, allowing for the eventual hire of one or more per diem nurses.

This week’s Move in Style Athlete Spotlight shines on Kaelyn Faber, a junior on the girls track and field team who took second at the Tri-Valley League Showcase with a personal best of 34 feet, 10.5 inches in shot put. Coach Jean Cann says Faber works hard to make herself a better teammate and athlete.

Hopkinton High School boys ski team coach Andrew Carlucci said his team is building a strong foundation on consistent performance as it continues to take fourth and fifth place in its races this season.

The latest Senior Snippets features information on a virtual museum tour, a Mardi Gras celebration and professional tax assistance.

Donald Corriveau, 80, passed away on Feb. 4. His daughter Michelle Gilson and her family are Hopkinton residents.

Town meetings tonight include the Board of Appeals (7) and the Trails Committee (7).

Photo of the Day

Hopkinton High School hockey player Will Iantosca carries the puck up ice during Saturday’s 8-6 victory over Dedham at New England Sports Center in Marlborough.

PHOTO/WILLIAM DURFEE