Water Master Plan

The Town of Maynard is taking proactive steps to ensure that residents have clean, reliable drinking water for decades to come. Our 2025 Water Supply and Treatment Master Plan is about more than infrastructure – it's about planning for future generations. As our community grows. we need to make sure our water system can handle increased demand and meet stricter environmental regulations that protect public health and safety. This plan looks as far ahead as 2075, giving Maynard a clear roadmap for long-term sustainability. To find out more, read the entire Water Supply & Treatment Master Plan.

Our Water System Today

Maynard operates three water treatment plants:

  • Old Marlboro Road (OMR)
  • Green Meadow
  • Rockland Avenue

Each facility faces challenges common to aging infrastructure—such as outdated equipment—as well as reduced production from existing wells caused by ongoing drought conditions.

In addition, water quality is affected by elevated levels of naturally occurring minerals (iron and manganese), organic compounds, and Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) present in the source water. Despite these challenges, our team is working diligently to ensure Maynard’s water remains safe to drink.

Key Challenges

  • TTHMs exceed limit: Recently, Maynard’s water exceeded the drinking water regulation for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs), which form when chlorine reacts with natural organic material in the water.
  • Iron & manganese: Naturally occurring minerals and aging pipes can cause tinted or rusty-colored water. While water meets safety standards at the treatment plant, manganese levels in the system may occasionally exceed health advisories. If you notice discoloration, run cold water until it clears and contact the Water Department.
  • PFAS & other constituents: Trace PFAS and other minerals require updated treatment technology.
  • Growing demand: Water use is expected to rise significantly by 2045 and 2075 as the Town grows.
  • Aging assets: Several treatment facilities and pipes are reaching the end of their useful life and need upgrades.
  • Drought impacts: Ongoing drought conditions affect both production and quality from existing wells.
  • Stricter standards: New state and federal water quality standard, especially for PFAS, are becoming more demanding.

Immediate Action is Necessary

  • Develop new well sources at Rockland Avenue and Old Marlboro Road (OMR).
  • Evaluate distribution system storage, water age, and water quality.
  • Implement PFAS treatment for all water sources.
  • Add essential pre-treatment so PFAS systems run efficiently and address contaminants contributing to current or future non-compliance.


Different Options Studied

The Master Plan evaluated 14 scenarios and narrowed them to two main pathways:

  1. Combine & upgrade local plants: Merge operations of Old Marlboro Road and Green Meadow.
  2. Prepare for a potential future MWRA connection combined with local plants.

Both options ensure redundancy, resiliency, and flexibility as the Town grows.

The Road Ahead

The Master Plan sets a phased strategy that evolves with population growth, technology, and funding opportunities. It prioritizes near-term upgrades (2025–2030) while laying the groundwork for long-term investments (2045–2075). The plan is designed to be adaptive—reviewed and updated regularly as conditions change.

Benefits for Maynard Residents

  • Safe, reliable water that meets or exceeds all drinking water standards.
  • Reduced risks of water shortages or service disruptions.
  • Improved water quality and taste for all households.
  • Long-term cost savings through smarter, coordinated investments.
  • Enhanced sustainability—planning instead of reacting to crises.

Key Takeaways

The Town of Maynard is taking a proactive, science-based approach to protect our most essential resource—clean drinking water. Through careful planning, investment, and transparency, we’re ensuring that Maynard’s water remains safe, sustainable, and affordable for generations to come.