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3-25-2025 12:48am
Dedham-Westwood Water District Receives Grant to Install Leak Detection Devices
Darlene Cancell
Editor
Dedham-Westwood Water District is planning to install leak detection devices on 550 fire hydrants, thanks to a $42,075 Drought Resiliency and Water Efficiency Grant through the state, announced the water district this week.
The grant is offered by the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA).
The leak detection devices listen to vibrations and sounds from pipes to detect leaks. They will allow early detection of water leaks, enabling them to be repaired quickly and reduce the water system’s overall unaccounted-for water loss, says the water district.
“We will be able to expand our current leak detection pilot study of 100 sensors by purchasing 500 additional devices,” said Executive Director Blake Lukis. He noted that the expanded installation would allow for the monitoring of all 210 miles of water mains in the water district's distribution system.
The EEA's Drought Resiliency and Water Efficiency Grant Program aims to fund projects that promote climate resiliency, specifically by helping communities and public water suppliers reduce indoor and outdoor water use and improve water loss control programs.
“Climate change is driving a rise in devastating wildfires and persistent droughts in recent years. Our communities need support to adapt and bounce back from these challenges,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “It is important that we fund projects that improve our readiness for droughts and help conserve water. This will empower municipalities and ensure a healthy water supply for future generations, especially as climate change continues to affect our water systems.”
According to EEA, in recent years, Massachusetts has seen a dramatic increase in droughts in regions across the state. The new Drought Resiliency and Water Efficiency Grant Program, currently in its inaugural year, is intended as a response to last year's multiple drought-related wildfires and the current drought that has lasted eight months statewide, says EEA.
EEA notes that seven of the last nine years have had several months in drought, sometimes reaching Level 3 – Critical Drought for multiple months. Record low streamflows and groundwater have been measured, says EEA.
With a goal of reducing water loss, improving drought resilience, and promoting efficient water use, EEA's new grant program will support projects that include leak detection systems, water meter installations, water conservation planning, and enhanced drought management measures.
Thanks to Dedham-Westwood Water District for sharing its news with Westwood Minute.
