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.

Wells 7, 8 expected to be back in operation next week

FILE PHOTO/JERRY SPAR

A well shutdown that began on Monday will fix a longstanding issue with the motor at Well 7, according to Water-Sewer Manager Jed Fenneuff.

In a notice last week, Fenneuff informed residents that Wells 7 and 8 would be taken offline this week for necessary repairs. He reported that a mechanical failure meant that both needed to be shut down while a contractor installs a new pump in Well 7.

“Since its original installation in 2012, Well 7 has experienced recurring issues with its motor,” Fenneuff explained in an email to the Independent. He noted that his department has been monitoring the equipment’s condition for years and developed strategies to extend its service life. He added that the operational controls implemented to overcome the performance issues were “no longer providing the level of protection needed,” resulting in the decision to replace the motor.

“As the condition of the motor continued to deteriorate, we were faced with the likelihood of an imminent failure,” Fenneuff stated. “Rather than waiting for an emergency situation that could impact system operations, we chose to take a proactive approach.”

That approach involved replacing Well 7’s vertical turbine pump and motor with a submersible pump system. This new system will reduce maintenance requirements and improve reliability, according to Fenneuff. He added that the project cost $17,000 and was paid for out of the available budget.

Repairs began on Monday and are anticipated to be completed on schedule. After the system is in, workers will need to sample the well before it can be put back online. Fenneuff said his department aims to have the wells working again by early next week.

The reduction in well capacity and production coincides with ongoing drought conditions and the town’s extended water restrictions. The latest press release from Energy and Environmental Affairs secretary Rebecca Tepper puts Hopkinton in a Level 3 critical drought.

“We are experiencing the [driest] start to a year in recorded history for this area,” stated Fenneuff. He noted that Massachusetts is seeing a 7-inch rainfall deficit compared to historical averages, which is depleting groundwater and streamflows, and stressing water supplies.

“These prolonged dry conditions underscore the importance of continued water conservation efforts to help preserve the available water resources and maintain the reliability of public water systems,” he added.

Fenneuff concluded by sharing that his department continues to be proactive with the town’s wells and pumping infrastructure to keep equipment “operating at peak performance.”

— NICK SCHOFIELD

Latest News

The School Committee last week learned about plans the school district is making to pilot three literacy programs in kindergarten through Grade 5 this fall.

The Hopkinton Trails Club will hold its next monthly meeting July 8 at the Hopkinton Public Library.

Photo of the Day

Select Board chair Shahidul Mannan (left) and member Amy Ritterbusch lead the way during Saturday’s Pride Parade at the Town Common.

PHOTO/COURTESY SHAHIDUL MANNAN