NORTHAMPTON (AP) - A lack of rain is causing problems for farmers and residents in western Massachusetts.
The Daily Hampshire Gazette reports that farmers in western Massachusetts are relying on irrigation.
And The Republican reports that Ware's public works director told the Board of Selectmen that residents must restrict nonessential water use between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
For farmers, irrigation keeps crops alive, but at a cost. The pumps can cost thousands of dollars and farmers must buy gasoline to run the machines and pay for the water.
Richard Tracy, co-owner of Intervale Farm in Westhampton, called the extra work "a necessary evil."
The dry conditions could be eased soon. The National Weather Service forecasts scattered thunder storms Sunday.
