Drought-Like Conditions This Summer Could Mean Dry Wells For Mainers This Fall

While the lack of rain this summer made those who had plans to play about in the great outdoors in Maine happier than a clam, the land in the Pine Tree State itself is suffering the consequences of such a dry weather pattern.

Not only have the dry conditions elevated the level of fire danger across the state, they may be lowering the water level, too.

Read More: Inside Maine's Battle Against Summer Wildfires And Their Causes

As of this week, Maine is still designated as being in a "Severe Drought," according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. 

Historically, when such conditions have occurred in Maine, these are the areas impacted by the lack of water.

"Fish kills occur; wildlife move to farms for food, golf courses conserve water, producers begin feeding cattle; hay prices are high.  Specialty crops are impacted in both yield and fruit size. Trees are brittle and susceptible to insects. Warnings are issued on outdoor burns; air quality is poor, water quality is poor; groundwater is declining; irrigation ponds are dry; outdoor water restrictions are implemented."

For property owners with wells, keeping a close eye on how those sources are doing is critical. Sputtering faucets or a drop in water pressure, water with a strange taste or smell or a cloudy appearance are all things to look for when it comes to a well that might be drying up.

According to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, if you think your well is starting to run dry, these are the things you want to do as soon as possible.

"Call 2-1-1 to report your dry well. This action allows the state to see how widespread the problem is. For moderate water use purposes, consider tapping into local roadside springs. Contact the Drinking Water Program to see if the spring is regulated and tested. Contact Licensed Well Drillers and Pump Installers to discuss options such as well replacement, or lowering an existing pump deeper into the water table. "

Some local fire departments are already asking folks to think ahead about conserving water, and to prepare for the likelihood of wells running dry.

The fire department in Mexico, Maine, went so far as to put folks in that town on notice  that they won't be able to come fill their wells this year if they run dry.

"As we venture further into this drought just as the cold months approach, keep in mind water wells may start to become impacted as underground water tables lose capacity. Please have a backup plan in place just in case you are to experience a dry well. We cannot help fill water wells due to liability and sanitary concerns. Please keep water consumption in mind moving forward."

Based on the numbers collected so far, it looks as thought Cumberland, Oxford and York counties have been hit the hardest this season, with a couple dozen, if not more, reports of dry wells in those areas.

Water officials are encouraging folks whose wells do run dry to report that to the State of Maine Dry Well Survey.