Enactment of new policy to reduce ‘pressure on water system’ and keep reservoirs at ‘safe levels’
In a social media post on Tuesday, Aug. 5, the Town of Woodstock notified residents that it is enacting ‘Level 2 Water Use Restrictions’ under their new Municipal Water Use and Restriction Protocol Guidelines that were created in March 2025.
The municipality points to dry conditions in the region and the lack of forecasted rain. On Tuesday, Aug. 5, all counties across New Brunswick, with the exception of Madawaska County, are under a burn ban.
Level 2 Water Restrictions
The restrictions mean residents in the municipality cannot fill pools, wash their cars, or use water for non-essential cleaning.
The restrictions also mean outdoor watering for residential users is limited to one day per week at two hours maximum, and the water can only be used for “food gardens or new trees/shrubs.” For commercial users, outdoor water is for “essential use only.”
The social media post said water audits may be “conducted on commercial users” and asks people to “please cooperate.”
Town officials say the water restrictions will remain in place for at least one week, but then added that residents should assume restrictions are “active until further notice.”
The full guideline can be found on the town’s website.
“We encourage you to read it to review the positive impacts water conservation can have, and tips on how to reduce your water usage on a daily basis,” noted the release. See the restriction policy here: https://woodstocknb.ca/…/Municipal_Water_Restriction…
If you have questions, you can contact the Woodstock Utility Office at utility@woodstocknb.ca or 1-506-325-4600
Water quality issues
In another social media post shortly after the water restrictions notice, the town warned residents that the water system is experiencing ‘elevated manganese levels,’ which may cause discoloured water and staining on fixtures and laundry.
“We understand this can be frustrating and inconvenient,” reads the notice. “Our utility team is working hard to resolve the issue with planned targeted flushing and maintenance on the Mangazur Filtration System. Please continue to follow current water conservation protocols to help support their work.”
