Below-normal rainfall has prompted Milford officials to ban the watering of lawns for the time being, according to a recent advisory.

Officials are also "strongly encouraging" residents with wells to limit their water usage in order to protect their supply.

The statement, issued by members of the Milford Board of Water and Sewer Commission, said the ban is based upon the monitoring of water levels, current system levels and a state advisory issued last week based on the U.S. Drought Monitor’s weekly report.

The monitor ranks drought severity on a scale from "D0" – abnormally dry – to "D4" – exceptional drought. It places all of Hillsborough, Rockingham and Strafford counties, and parts of Cheshire and Sullivan counties, at "D1," meaning moderate drought conditions. The remainder of the state is ranked "D0," for "abnormally dry."

More information, visit www.milford.nh.gov or www.des.nh.gov.

– DEAN SHALHOUP

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