{\rtf1\ansi \deff0\deflang{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2 Times New Roman;}{\f1\froman\fcharset2\fprq2 Symbol;}{\f2\fswiss\fcharset0\fprq2 Arial;}{\f3\fnil\fcharset2\fprq2 Wingdings;}{\f4\fmodern\fcharset0\fprq1 Courier New;}{\f5\fnil\fcharset0\fprq0 New Century Schoolbook;}{\f6\fswiss\fcharset0\fprq2 MS Sans Serif;}{\f7\fswiss\fcharset0\fprq2 Arial Black;}{\f8\fmodern\fcharset0\fprq1 Courier;}}
{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255;\red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;
\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0;\red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}
{\stylesheet{\fs20 \sbasedon0\snext0 Normal;}{\s1 \sb280\f7\fs28 \sbasedon0\snext1 Heading 1;}{\s2 \sb120\b\f2\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext2 Heading 2;}{\s3 \sb120\b\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext3 Heading 3;}{\s4 \qc\sa240\f7\fs48 \sbasedon0\snext4 Title;}{
\s5 \qj\sl-180\slmult0\sa220\f2\fs20\lang1033 \sbasedon0\snext5 Body Text;}{\s6 \fs20 \sbasedon0\snext6 296;}{\s7 \fs20 \sbasedon0\snext7 315;}{\s8 \fs24\lang1033 \sbasedon0\snext8 Default Text:1;}{
\s9 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnucrm\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf0\pnql\pnstart1{\pntxta .}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext9 Outline (Not Indented);}{\s10 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnucrm\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf0\pnql\pnstart1{\pntxta .}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext10 
Outline (Indented);}{\s11 \qr\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext11 Table Text;}{\s12 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pndec\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf0\pnql\pnstart1{\pntxta .}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext12 Number List;}{\s13 \fi720\li0\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext13 First Line Indent
;}{\s14 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'76}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext14 Bullet 2;}{\s15 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext15 Bullet 1;}{
\s16 \fs24 \sbasedon0\snext16 Body Single;}{\s17 \fs24 \sbasedon0\snext17 Default Text;}{\*\cs18 \fs24\ul\cf13\expnd0\expndtw0 \sbasedon0 Viewed Anchor (A);}{\*\cs19 \fs24\ul\cf2\expnd0\expndtw0 \sbasedon0 Anchor (A);}{
\*\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0 \sbasedon0 InitialStyle;}}{\info{\author Lynette C. Miller}{\*\category Miscellaneous}}\widowctrl \fet2


















\margt720\margb1080\margl1440\margr1440\sectd \headery648\footery648\pgndec\pgnstarts0\titlepg{\headerr \s17 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\f5\fs24 River Flow Advisory Commission/}{\f5\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\f5\fs24 Drought Task Force Report\tab\tab}{\f5\fs24 May, 2002}}{\footerr \s17 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360
{\fs24 \tab}{\f5\fs24 -{\field{\*\fldinst PAGE}{\fldrslt 1}}}{\f5\fs24 -}}\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 State of Maine}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 Drought Task Force}{\b\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 Report on Current Conditions}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 May 10, 2002}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs22 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl
-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs22 \par}{\trowd \trql\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrdb\brdrw45 \clbrdrb\brdrdb\brdrw45 \clbrdrl\brdrdb\brdrw45 \clbrdrr\brdrdb\brdrw45 \clcfpat0\clcbpat16\cellx9320\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 
\qc\sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 The Drought Task Force issued previous reports in August, September, November and December}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 ,}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
 2001, and January  }{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 and}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24  March}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 ,}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24  2002.}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0 
  }{\fs24 All previous reports are available on the Internet at }{\b\fs24 www.state.me.us/mema/drought}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\b\fs22 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The Drought Task Force met on Friday, May 10 to assess current conditions in the State.    }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
The Drought Task Force was convened in August of 2001, and held additional meetings throughout the fall and spring.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 The Task Force is composed of state, federal and private sector agencies who deal with water resource issues.}{\fs24   }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Throughout this report, references are offered for further information.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Overview:}{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Thanks to spring rains, surface water conditions (streams, lakes and reservoirs) have returned to near }{\fs24 normal}{\fs24  across the state.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
However, ground water levels in south-central, southern and western Maine continue below normal.}{\fs24    }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
As we enter the late spring and summer, normal ground water recession will be experienced across the state.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 This may bring back water supply problems in many areas as the summer progresses.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
A prolonged period of dry and hot weather could both cause }{\fs24 further}{\fs24  drop in natural water levels and cause increased water usage }{\fs24 which}{\fs24  could stress both public and private water supplies.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Current Conditions:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Streamflows and Runoff}{\fs24 :}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Streamflows were in the normal range throughout the state of Maine, except in portions of northern Maine where runoff was above-normal.}{\fs24    }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}{\trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt
\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 
APRIL  RUNOFF}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr
\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\intbl\cell \pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \ql{\fs24 % of Median}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt
\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 St. John River at Fort }{\fs24 Kent}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 141}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108
\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Narraguagus}{\fs24  River at }{\fs24 Cherryfield}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 100}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs
\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Mattawamkeag River near Mattawamkeag}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 119}
\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 
\cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Piscataquis}{\fs24  River near }{\fs24 Dover-Foxcroft}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 87}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl
\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Carrabassett}{\fs24  River near North }{\fs24 Anson}\cell
\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 75}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Little }{\fs24 Androscoggin}{\fs24  River near South Paris}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 90}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt
\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4675\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx6187\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Saco}
{\fs24  River at Cornish}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 95}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Storage}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
The total amount of water in usable storage in the five reporting }{\fs24 basins}{\fs24  at the end of April was 76 percent of capacity, which is above the long-term end-of-April average of 71 percent.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}{\trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalb\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalb\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs
\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalb\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalb\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 
\cellx7099\clvertalb\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 Reservoir System}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 Reservoir Capacity }{\fs24 (mcf)*}
\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24  This Month (% Full)}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 This Month Last Year (% Full)}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 \qc{\fs24  Long-term  Average (% Full)}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0
\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\intbl\cell \intbl\cell \intbl\cell \intbl\cell \intbl\cell \row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 
\cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt
\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\intbl\cell \intbl\cell \intbl\cell \intbl\cell 
\intbl\cell \row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs
\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt
\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 St. }{\fs24 Croix}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 26,845}\cell\pard\plain\intbl
\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 80}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 72}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 80}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr
\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628
\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {
\fs24 West Branch }{\fs24 Penobscot}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 58,700}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 60}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 51}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 
62}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 
\cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt
\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Kennebec}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 44,730}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 
89}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 65}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 77}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113
\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Androscoggin}{\fs24 
 River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 28,100}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 89}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 59}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 69}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0
\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Sebago}{\fs24  Lake}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 9,700}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 66}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{
\fs24 69}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 80}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx3113\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx4487\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx5628\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs
\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx7099\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 TOTAL OF FIVE SYSTEMS}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 
168,075}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 76}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 60}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s11 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 71}\cell\row \trowd \trqc\trgaph108\trleft0\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 
\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw15 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw15 \cellx8622\pard\plain\intbl\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 * }{
\fs24 mcf-millions}{\fs24  of cubic feet}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 During the winter, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection }{\fs24 (DEP)}{\fs24 
 and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission }{\fs24 (FERC)}{\fs24  worked with river basin managers to reduce river levels below minimal levels, in order to preserve storage until the spring recharge.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
This coordination is still taking place, although minimum }{\fs24 flows}{\fs24  in many locations have been restored.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Sebago}{\fs24 
 Lake and North Twin Lake remain somewhat below normal.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 Flow has been reduced from 250 }{\fs24 cfs}{\fs24  to 133 }{\fs24 cfs}{\fs24  at Eel Weir Dam to help }{\fs24 refill}{\fs24  }{\fs24 Sebago.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
Flow has been reduced to 650 }{\fs24 cfs}{\fs24  at }{\fs24 Millinocket}{\fs24  during a 2-week mill shutdown to help }{\fs24 refill}{\fs24  North Twin.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 
Ground Water}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Ground-water}{\fs24  levels were in the normal range, except in southern, central and portions of eastern Maine where levels were in the below-normal range.}{\fs24 
  }{\fs24 Nine wells showed water-level increases during the month. Water levels in ten wells had decreased when compared to water levels at the end of April 2001. Three wells recorded }{\fs24 record month end}{\fs24  lows for April.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 It is difficult to project specific well status and }{\fs24 prognosis}{\fs24  across the state on the basis of monitoring wells alone.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
However, the status of these wells represents an indicator of statewide conditions.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24\lang1033 
From May through September (the timing varies across the state), evaporation and transpiration normally exceed precipitation.}{\fs24\lang1033   }{\fs24 This leads to a normal recession of ground water levels, even without human usage.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The }{\fs24 USGS}{\fs24  Monthly Current Conditions Report for April is online at: }{\b\fs24 }{\b\fs24 }{\b\fs24 }{\b\fs24 \cs19 \fs24\ul\cf2\expnd0\expndtw0\b\fs24 {\field{\fldinst 
HYPERLINK "http://me.water.usgs.gov/02.feb"}{\fldrslt  http://me.water.usgs.gov/02.apr.html}}}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Weather and }{\i\fs24 Climatology:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
The US Drought Monitor, issued by the Climate Prediction Center, shows the entire state in moderate to severe drought.  Between 3 and 6 inches of rain above normal in a week would be needed in one week to bring the index up to normal.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
Despite above normal rainfall levels in many areas in February, March and April, rainfall totals over the last 18 months are much below normal.  Snowfall for the winter of 2001-2002 was below normal.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The next five days may bring a quarter to a half-inch of rain to some areas.  Six to ten days out, p}{\fs24 
recipitation is projected to be normal, and eight to fourteen days out, below normal.  In the long-term, there is no identifiable trend toward above or below normal precip}{\fs24 i}{\fs24 t}{\fs24 
ation..  This amounts to equal chances of normal, above normal or below normal precipitation.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24\lang1033 
The overall outlook for the East Coast continues to call for slow improvement, with the likelihood that some water shortages will persist into July.  Accumulating enough rain to bring groundwater levels up to normal everywhere in the state following the severe precipitation deficits incurred since last autumn is unlikely. It should be pointed out that below-normal rainfall through July with above-normal temperatures would cause drought impacts to rapidly worsen. 
}{\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The US Drought Monitor can be found online at: }{\b\fs24 http://enso.unl.edu/monitor/monitor.html}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
In December, it was noted that precipitation would have to run between 125% and 150% of normal over the next six months to bring the state out of drought conditions.  As of the end of April, rainfall was 91%, 109% and 79% of normal in Caribou, Bangor and Portland, respectively.
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Snow Survey:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Snow surveys have ended for the season.  All snow survey reports and maps for the year are posted on the Internet at }{\b\fs24 www.state.me.us/mema/weather/snow.htm.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 
Background information}{\b\fs24 : }{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 http://www.umaine.edu/maineclimate}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 
http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/ol/climate/research/prelim/US/US_prelim.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/spi.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b
\fs24\lang1033 http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/palmer.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/cdus/palmer_drought/}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://enso.unl.edu/ndmc/enigma/indices.htm#palmer}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Weather sites:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/car}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/mema/weather/genweath.htm}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Public Water Supplies:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Approximately eight water systems have asked request in place for voluntary water conservation.  No systems have mandatory restrictions in place at this time.  The Drinking Water Program reports that they have received no new requests for emergency well permits since early March.  This is an indication that seasonal businesses, a concern earlier in the year, are not experiencing major water supply problems at this time.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
The Maine Rural Water Association and the Maine Water Utilities Association held seven workshops across the state on drought, and water management for drought.  The Drinking Water Program, USGS, NWS and MEMA were participants at all forums.  }{\fs24 \par
}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
It is still critical that water systems pay close attention to drought conditions.  The associations, the DWP and the PUC will continue to keep the issue of drought potential and sound water management before public water supplies.  }{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Private Water Supplies:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Failure of private rural wells have represented a greater problem for the public than possible shortages from public water supplies.  Many of the involved agencies have experienced an increase in calls from members of the public with dry wells.  Following an appeal to homeowners to report low and dry wells, MEMA has received information from over 1500 households.  Calls are still coming in at the rate of six or seven per day, some from individuals reporting that their wells have very recently gone dry.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Statistical research commissioned in March estimated some 2300 household }{\fs24 withs}{\fs24 
 dry wells at that time, with another 18,400 with low water levels.  According to this survey, over 16,000 families had been without water at some time between June of 2001 and March of 2002.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 A link to full survey results may be found online at }{\fs24 www.state.me.us/mema/drought.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Well Drilling}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Because spring recharge has refreshed a number of wells, }{\fs24 well-drillers}{\fs24 
 generally are caught up with emergency cases.  The emergency bill to loosen permit restrictions on the movement of well-drilling equipment on posted roads was passed and signed by the Governor on March 21, which allowed }{\fs24 drillers}{\fs24 
 to continue to respond to homeowners with dry wells.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \tx720{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Fire P}{\b\fs24 o}{\b\fs24 tential:}{\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Fire danger is rated high across the state at this time, largely because of recent warm windy weather, and dry grasses from last fall.  It is expected that the danger level will fall in the coming weeks as green vegetation grows up.  However, dry weather can change fire potential quickly, and conditions will be monitored closely.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Maine is a partner with northeastern states and eastern Canadian provinces for fire suppression.  Planning among compact members include resource identification, mutual aid, and potential equipment pre}{\fs24 -}{\fs24 positioning.  }{\i\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Other Issues}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Information for Homeowners:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\fs24 General information about wells and well-drilling is available on the web site of the State Drinking Water Program.  Homeowners can determine if the }{\fs24 driller}{\fs24 
 they are thinking of hiring is licensed and in good regulatory standing by contacting the Maine Well }{\fs24 Drillers}{\fs24  and Pump Installers Commission (207-287-5699)}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Individuals should let their towns know if they are having water supply problems.  This will lead to better information about the magnitude of the problem; in addition, the town may be able to offer some emergency assistance.  Individuals may also call MEMA at 800-452-8735 for information.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
It is recommended that homeowners get their water tested if the water supply was low or dry, and the water level has rebounded.  A test would determine if contamination has entered the well or water system.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Not Recommended}{\fs24 :}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Homeowners should not have wells refilled}{\fs24 
.  Water dumped into a well will last perhaps 3 days before it completely drains away.  More of the water will drain into the ground in this time frame than can usually be used by the household.  In addition, contamination of water systems can result by opening the well and introducing water of outside origin.  Contamination of the area surrounding the well or the aquifer can also result.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Economic Impact:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Although hydroelectric generation is still reduced at many sites, other economic indicators are positive.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Pre}{\fs24 -}{\fs24 
bookings for the summer indicate a high level of interest in Maine as a tourist destination.  If current surface water conditions are maintained, it appears that the drought will not create an im}{\fs24 ped}{\fs24 
iment to recreation.  Lake levels are near normal, and reservoi}{\fs24 
r storages and stream flows appear to promise a normal white-water rafting season.  As things currently stand, visitors to Maine should not experience any negative repercussion from the drought.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Sources of Assistance:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The Governor\'92s request for }{\fs24 FEMA}{\fs24 
 assistance has been initially denied.  An appeal is allowed under law; the decision about an appeal has not been made.  A request for assistance for public water systems from the Army Corps of Engineers remains under review.  The following programs have been and remain available:
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 USDA, Agricultural Disaster Assistance.}{\fs24 
  Implementation of the Emergency Conservation Program has just been approved for Maine, which can provide grants up to 50% for well-drilling }{\fs24 
or other water transport or delivery costs.  An agricultural disaster designation has also been approved for the State, making a variety of other programs available}{\fs24 
.  Farmers should check with their Farm Service Agencies for information on available programs.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 USDA, Rural Development}{\fs24 
: The 504 Loan and Grant Programs are available to qualified individual homeowners.  Applicants must live in an area designated as rural, must own the house and the land it is built on, and income-qualify for the assistance.  Loans are 1%, and can be written for as long as a 20-year term.  Grants are available to qualified applicants at least 62 years of age.
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 More information on this program is available from USDA, Rural Development, at:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn 
\pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Presque}{\fs24  Isle (serves }{\fs24 Aroostook}{\fs24  and Washington Counties): 764-4155/4157.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \fi-360\li720
{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Bangor (serves Hancock, }{\fs24 Knox,}{\fs24  Lincoln, }{\fs24 Penobscot,}{\fs24  }{\fs24 Piscataquis,}{\fs24  }{\fs24 Somerset}{\fs24  and }{
\fs24 Waldo}{\fs24  Counties): 990-3676}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Lewiston}{\fs24  (serves }{\fs24 Androscoggin,}{\fs24 
 Cumberland, Franklin, }{\fs24 Kennebec,}{\fs24  Oxford, }{\fs24 Sagadahoc,}{\fs24  and York Counties):  753-9400}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),}{\fs24 
 administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has issued some Urgent Needs Funds for community water supplies.  Other CDBG assistance may assist some communities whose citizens have private well problems.  The application deadline for these programs has passed, and grants will be awarded later in the year.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 More information is available from DECD or the jurisdiction\'92s Regional Planning Commission.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \fi-360
\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 DECD: Mike }{\fs24 Baran,}{\fs24  624-9816, }{\fs24 mike.baran@state.me.us}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 General Assistance:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Individuals should check with town General Assistance (GA) Administrators to determine if their situation qualifies for assistance.  }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Community Support:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
Some towns or utilities may be delivering water to elderly or special needs residents, making town water available to residents, making shower facilities available, etc.  Towns need to be encouraged to continue to offer emergency assistance where needed.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Public Information:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
In mid-December, Governor King focused attention on the drought problem, and introduced a state web site featuring tips for homeowners, links to scientific data, and all Task Force reports.  The address of the site is }{\b\fs24 
www.state.me.us/mema/drought}{\fs24 .}{\fs24   The site will continue to be updated with new information as long as drought conditions persist.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
All agencies represented on the Task Force continue to respond to public and media inquiries, and to do outreach to their constituents.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
It was recommended that future public information include the recommendation that homeowners have their water tested if their wells have been low or dry.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Action Steps:}{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 As part of the Governor\'92s request for disaster assistance, actions taken and planned were summarized.  Some of these include: }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520{\i\fs24 Actions taken:  }{\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040
\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody
\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Constant monitoring of drought conditions, and water outlooks, information sharing among State, federal, and private agencies (Drought Task Force).}{\fs24 \par
}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 
\'9f\tab}{\fs24 Voluntary or mandatory conservation orders issued by 10 water districts over the last year, successfully averting critical local water shortages.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040
\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Statewide public information and education campaign, including urging conservation as appropriate, information on aid programs, and dissuading dangerous practices such as putting water from an outside source into a well.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Coordination among state, federal and private agencies to adjust of mandatory minimum flows on several rivers and streams in order to avert critically low stream flows.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320
\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Participation in workshops, legislative briefings and conferences to educate public officials.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520
\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Reallocation of personnel and financial resources within State agencies to respond to individuals, communities and public water facilities, including but not limited to providing technical assistance on private water systems, expedited emergency permitting of public water supplies, reallocation of limited loan and grant funds to assist most critical needs.
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{
\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Continued response by Maine\'92s licensed }{\fs24 well-drillers}{\fs24  through the winter (usually an off-season) to homes without water, at an increased cost to those operations.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Passage of emergency legislation to loosen permit requirements for movement of well-drilling equipment on weight-restricted roads.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640
\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Damage assessment of farm and crop losses, and application for USDA assistance}{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f
\tab}{\fs24 Intensive damage assessment of public, individual and business impact.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360
{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Research into available aid programs.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480
\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Local, County and State outreach and damage assessment}{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f
\tab}{\fs24 Accelerated wildfire surveillance and response}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360
\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Provision of water for families with no home water supply by communities and public water systems}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320
\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520{\i\fs24 
Actions planned or under consideration:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880
\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Continue all current activities}{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 
\'9f\tab}{\fs24 Implement aggressive regional fire suppression plan for the coming fire season including pre-positioning of equipment, resource sharing strategies and increased surveillance}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880
\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Work with social service and voluntary agencies to bridge the gap for families, especially those with special needs, between current conditions and restoration of adequate water service to the home}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440
\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
Assess need for water testing of private supplies}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s7 \fs20 \tx360\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\tx10080\tx10800\tx11520\fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang
\pnf3\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f3\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Continue public information campaign, developing content as dictated by current situation.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b
\fs24 Conclusion:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Stream flows and river and lake levels have returned to near-normal levels.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 However, }{\fs24 ground-water}{\fs24 
 levels are below normal in the south-central, southern and western Maine.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 In other areas, although }{\fs24 ground-water}{\fs24  is within the normal range, it is at the low end of that range.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 Normal }{\fs24 ground-water
}{\fs24  recession through the summer will see levels decrease.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 A prolonged period of dry and hot weather could push many areas back into critically low ground water levels. }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
It is recommended that homeowners and public water supplies alike, particularly those who have experienced water supply problems, should continue to practice sensible water management and look for improvements in their systems (repairing leaks, etc.).}{
\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
All agencies involved in water resources issues, as well as those who respond to community problems and human needs, will need to continue to monitor the situation closely, and work in their areas of expertise to support Maine citizens.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 The next meeting of the Drought Task Force is scheduled for mid-July, 2002.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
All or selected members of the Task Force will come together sooner if conditions warrant.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Information Resources:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 U.S.}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24  Geological Survey}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{
\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207-622-8201}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 http://me.water.usgs.gov}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 National Weather Service, Gray, Maine}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207-688-3216}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
National Weather Service, Caribou, Maine}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207-496-8931}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/car}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 Maine Department of Conservation, Maine Geological Survey}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0
\fs24 207-287-2801}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
Maine Emergency Management Agency}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 -}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0
\fs24 626-4503}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/mema}{\cs20 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Maine Department of Human Services, State of Maine Drinking Water Program}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 207-287-2070}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/dhs/eng/water}{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 Maine Department of }{\fs24 Economic}{\fs24  and Community Development (CDBG information)}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 207-624-9816}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 
{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s17 \fs24 {\fs16 G:\DOCUMENTS\WEB\RFAC\development\reports\\{\field{\*\fldinst { FILENAME }}{\*\fldrslt Drought Report 051002.lwp}}}}