[Editor’s Note: I have been told that the water at the Watkins Hill Well may have had a positive test for bacteria. However, the system sample in the Village tested clean. Regardless, the order applies to all town-supplied water in Walpole, south of the Cold River. It does not apply to North Walpole, which has its own water system.]
The Walpolean 
This is very confusing . How do we know if we are drinking Watkins Hill water and if it is off line shouldn’t we be able to drink town water or village water?
if the sample is ok?
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From what I understand, the boil order applies to all town-supplied water, including in the village. I believe the order is in effect through Friday, but I will post an update if I get one. – Kelli
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It is outrageous that Walpole residents who pay for water are being informed of this potential health emergency in such a casual way. I have heard that some water is fine. DO WE NEED TO BOIL WATER OR NOT? We need a proper emergency notice system and it needs to be properly used. -Jon MacClaren
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Yes, all Walpole water needs to be boiled. I was told that the water needs to test clean for at least two days before the boil order can be lifted. I will post any updates I receive from the town.
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Is there a way we can be notified for future? We only found out from a caring neighbor. We’ve been here for a year and a half now.
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We were lucky to have a caring neighbor inform us. We moved here a year and a half ago. Is there a way to be notified directly from the town for future? Text, perhaps? Where should we check for an ‘all clear,’ back here? Thank you very much.
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From what I understand, this type of boil order is rare. The last one in Walpole may have been more than 20 years ago during the flood of 2005 (pre-social media, pre-smartphone). Things have changed a lot since then, and the old-school way of doing things may not be sufficient going forward – though it’s always good to know your neighbors. I believe this issue was discussed at last night’s Selectboard meeting, so it is definitely on the town’s radar now. – Kelli
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Thank you, Kelli! 😊
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