EEE risk level is high
The Department of Public Health has identified the risk level for Eastern equine encephalitis as “high” in Harvard and in neighboring Ayer, Boxborough, and Littleton. “High” is level 4 out of 5 on DPH’s scale. The risk level for West Nile Virus in Harvard remains low. Residents should take the following actions to avoid mosquitos:
- View risk level maps at mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovi
- rus-update#risk-maps.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellents any time you are outdoors.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Schedule outdoor activities to avoid the hours from dusk to dawn.
- Repair damaged window and door screens.
- Remove standing water from the areas around your home.
For more information go to tinyurl.com/bohmosies.
Honor our veterans
There will be a Veterans Day ceremony, Monday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. on the Common, and a wreath will be placed at the flagpole. The featured speaker will be Duane Barber, a 30-year active service retired Army Colonel and Harvard resident since 1993. The timing of the event marks the armistice ending World War I, which took effect on Nov. 11, 1918, at 11 a.m.
Outdoor fire ban
Due to the current and expected weather conditions, Fire Chief Sicard has imposed an outdoor fire ban in the town of Harvard until further notice. This includes fires associated with fire pits (including Solo stoves), chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and cooking and heating equipment that are not specifically covered under 310 CMR 7.07, the Open Burning regulation.
Ski and Snowboard Club registration
Harvard Parks and Recreation’s 2025 Ski and Snowboard Club is now accepting registrations. This after-school program for HES and Bromfield students runs for six weeks on Wednesdays, starting Wednesday, Jan 8. Bus service for students is arranged through Parks and Rec. For more information and to register, please visit harvardma.myrec.com.
Free radon test kits
Residents can request free air and private well water radon test kits from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Indoor Air Quality Division. Radon is a naturally occurring colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas, present in the ground across Massachusetts. DPH suggests that everyone living or working in a home or rental unit “that touches the ground” should test the air for radon every two years during the heating season.
To request a free test kit email DPHIAQ.radon@mass.gov or phone 800-723-6695. Tests cannot be used to meet requirements for property transfers.
National Grid outage information
National Grid customers can get information during power outages by visiting National Grid’s “Outage Central” website at nationalgridus.com/outage-central. Customers can report an outage, check its status and estimated time of restoration, and view outage maps. Customers will also find instructions on receiving outage alerts by text message.
Saturday hazardous waste collection
The Devens Regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center will receive hazardous waste Saturday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 9 Cook Street (rear), Devens. Closed during rain; reopens when rain stops. For information on items accepted, packaging, and fees, visit DevensHHW.com.
Park-and-ride shuttle to Littleton station
The Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) provides commuter shuttle service connecting Harvard residents to the Littleton commuter rail station. Shuttles stop at the Holy Trinity parking lot at 15 Still River Road and at the business plaza at 285 Ayer Road, and shuttle riders can park their cars at these locations. For pickup times, go to mrta.us, click on “Schedules and Maps,” and then on “Harvard Commuter Shuttle.”
Lions Club citrus sale
The Harvard Lions Club citrus sale is underway, featuring California navel oranges and Florida grapefruit. This is an online-only sale; cash-and-carry sales are not available. Orders must be placed by Nov. 21 for delivery on Dec. 14. For more details and to order fruit, including fruit gift boxes, go to harvardlions.com.
Loaves & Fishes
The Loaves & Fishes food pantry, 234 Barnum Road, Devens, serves food to people in need who reside in Ayer, Devens, Dunstable, Groton, Harvard, Littleton, and Shirley. Pantry hours are Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon (closed Fridays before Saturday sessions); first Tuesday, 5 to 7 p.m.; third Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. Visit loavesfishespantry.org for more information.
Devens noise report
- Throughout November, small arms (rifles and pistols)
- Nov. 8, demolition and explosives
- Nov. 15-17, automatic weapons