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\sbasedon0\snext12 Body Single;}{\s13 \fs24 \sbasedon0\snext13 Default Text;}{\*\cs14 \f6\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 \s13 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\f7\fs24 Maine Drought Task Force Report\tab\tab}{\f7\fs24 January, 2002}}{\footerr \s13 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\fs24 \tab}{\f7\fs24 -{\field{\*\fldinst PAGE}{\fldrslt 1}}}{\f7\fs24 -}}\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 \qc{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \qc{\b\f7\fs24 State of Maine}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \qc{\b\f7\fs24 Drought Task Force}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \qc{\b\f7\fs24 Report on Current Conditions}{\b\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \qc{\b\f7\fs24 January 23, 2002}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\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\s13 \fs24 \qc\sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs22 
The Drought Task Force issued previous reports in August, September, November and December, 2001.  }{\f7\fs22 All previous reports are available on the Internet at }{\b\f7\fs22 www.state.me.us/mema/drought}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259
\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\b\f7\fs22 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
The Drought Task Force was convened in August of 2001, and held additional meetings throughout the fall.  The Task Force is made up of state, federal and private sector agencies who deal with water resource issues.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Throughout this report, references are offered for further information.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Overview:}{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Drought conditions have not substantially improved as the winter of 2001-2002  has progressed.  In fact, ground water, stream flow and surface water statistics as of the end of December show record and near-record lows in many instances, and the Palmer Index, a measure of drought maintained by the National Weather Service, has continued to drop.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 The calendar year of 2001 was the driest in 107 years of record-keeping in Maine.  }{\f7\fs24 
Even normal precipitation from now through spring will not be sufficient to lift the state out of drought conditions.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Maine communities and residents who are experiencing water supply problems }{\i\f7\fs24 should be prepared to see those problems continue}{\f7\fs24 .  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 
Current Conditions:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Precipitation data from January through December 2001 in Maine confirms this year as the driest in 107 years of record-keeping.  }{\i\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Hydrologic Conditions:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
According to the December Current Water Resources Conditions Report of the }{\f7\fs24 USGS,}{\f7\fs24 
  groundwater levels were in the below-normal range for the entire state of Maine.  Groundwater levels were in the below-normal range for the entire state of Maine.  Six of the ten wells recorded  record month-end lows for December. Two wells recorded all time lows. Five wells showed water-level decreases during the month. Water levels in ten wells had decreased when compared to water levels at the end of December 2000.
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
It is difficult to project specific well status and prognosis across the state on the basis of monitoring wells alone.  However, the status of these wells represents an indicator of widespread vulnerability.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Runoff was in the below-normal range throughout the state, except in northern Maine where runoff was in the normal range.  Runoff was below normal for the seventh consecutive month and for ten of the last eleven months at the }{\f7\fs24 Mattawamkeag}{\f7
\fs24  River site.  Runoff was below normal for the eighth consecutive month and for thirteen of the last fifteen months at the }{\f7\fs24 Narraguagus}{\f7\fs24  River site.  A record low daily flow for December of 55 }{\f7\fs24 cfs}{\f7\fs24 
 was recorded at the }{\f7\fs24 Narraguagus}{\f7\fs24  River site.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Storages in Maine\'92
s lakes are also well below normal.  The total amount of water in usable storage in the five reporting basins at the end of December was 29 percent of capacity, which is below the long-term end-of-December average of 60 percent.  Power production has been curtailed at many sites.
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 The }{\f7\fs24 USGS}{\f7\fs24  Monthly Current Conditions Report for November is online at: }{\b\f7\fs24 http://me.water.usgs.gov/01.dec.html}{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 The Maine Department of Environmental Protection }{\f7\fs24 (DEP)}{\f7\fs24   and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission }{\f7\fs24 (FERC)}{\f7\fs24 
 have been working with river basin managers to reduce river levels below minimal levels.  It is hoped that lowering flows now will preserve storage until the expected spring recharge.  Minimum flows have been reduced at sites on the }{\f7\fs24 
Androscoggin,}{\f7\fs24  }{\f7\fs24 Kennebec,}{\f7\fs24  }{\f7\fs24 Presumpscot,}{\f7\fs24  St. }{\f7\fs24 Croix,}{\f7\fs24  and Union Rivers, as well as the West Branch of the }{\f7\fs24 Penobscot.}{\f7\fs24   }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Although some }{\f7\fs24 storages}{\f7\fs24  are experiencing a slight winter recharge because of warm weather and runoff, the runoff received now will not be available in the spring.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Weather and }{\i\f7\fs24 Climatology:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 The }{\f7\fs24 Palmer}{\f7\fs24 
 index, a matrix of several factors such as temperature, precipitation and soil moisture, shows extreme drought across the state.  Between 8 and 11 inches of rain in a week would be needed in one week to bring the index up to normal.}{\f7\fs24   }{\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Precipitation deficits are dramatic all over the state, as much as 20 inches below normal in some areas.  Long-term weather forecasts, although approximate, indicate normal precipitation and temperatures.  There is some indication that precipitation may actually be below normal.  Totals for January are so far generally running below normal.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Precipitation would have to run between 125% and 150% of normal over the next several months to bring the state out of drought conditions.  The chances of this happening are minimal.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Snow Survey:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 A preliminary snow survey was done in early January, but there is not enough historical }{\f7\fs24 snowpack}{\f7\fs24 
 data for this time frame for comparative analysis.  Another survey will be done in early February, and weekly surveys will begin the first week in March.  All snow survey reports and maps are posted on the Internet at }{\b\f7\fs24 
www.state.me.us/mema/weather/snow.htm.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24\lang1033 Summary}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 :}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24\lang1033 In an average year, }{\f7\fs24\lang1033 hydrologic systems begin at \'93full\'94.  Summer }{\f7\fs24\lang1033 evapotran}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 spiration}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 
 (water taken up by growing plants and trees) and usage drains hydro}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 logical systems to perhaps \'93half-full\'94.  The winter snowpack and spring runoff then refills hydro}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 logical systems to \'93full\'94.  }{\f7\fs24
\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24\lang1033 Under the existing conditions, summer }{\f7\fs24\lang1033 evapotranspiration}{\f7\fs24\lang1033  and }{\f7\fs24\lang1033 useage}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 
 have critically drained hydrological systems.  An average snowpack may refill hydrological systems to only to \'93half-full\'94, and summer }{\f7\fs24\lang1033 evapotranspiration}{\f7\fs24\lang1033 
 and usage could drain hydrological systems to critical levels again.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Background information}{\b\f7\fs24 : }{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 http://www.umaine.edu/maineclimate}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/ol/climate/research/prelim/US/US_prelim.html}{\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/spi.html}{\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 
http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/palmer.html}{\b\f7\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/cdus/palmer_drought/}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 
{\b\f7\fs24 http://enso.unl.edu/ndmc/enigma/indices.htm#palmer}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Weather sites:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7
\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/car}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/mema/weather/genweath.htm}{\b\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Public Water Supplies:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 The PUC reports that Island Falls, }{\f7\fs24 Monson,}{\f7\fs24 
 Mt. Desert, New Portland, Port }{\f7\fs24 Clyde,}{\f7\fs24  Winter Harbor public water systems have requested voluntary conservation and }{\f7\fs24 Castine}{\f7\fs24  has imposed mandatory water restrictions.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Some of the water systems which are currently experiencing problems have historically had problems in dry periods and have not addressed these shortfalls adequately.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {
\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
There is some concern that the operators of some public water supplies may not fully recognize the gravity of the current conditions.  A drought fact sheet was sent to all public water supplies in the state in December.  The Maine Rural Water Association has scheduled 5 workshops for water utilities to give them more detailed information about the drought and its effects.  The 
}{\f7\fs24 USGS,}{\f7\fs24  }{\f7\fs24 NWS,}{\f7\fs24  Drinking Water Program and MEMA are expected to participate}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Private Water Supplies:}{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Failure of private rural wells represents a greater problem for the public than possible shortages from public water supplies.  Many of the involved agencies are experiencing an increase in calls from members of the public with dry wells.  }{\i\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Well Drilling}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Well }{\f7\fs24 drillers}{\f7\fs24 
 are universally extremely busy.  On the average, the wait time between contacting a }{\f7\fs24 driller}{\f7\fs24  and the start of the job is measured in multiple weeks.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 Members of the Task Force have been working with the Maine Ground Water Association, which represents a majority of licensed }{\f7\fs24 well-drillers}{\f7\fs24 
 and pump installers in the state, to make sure good information is available on well-drilling status.  An informal survey of Maine\'92s well }{\f7\fs24 drillers}{\f7\fs24 
 conducted in early January shows at least 649 families with dry wells in the state on }{\f7\fs24 drillers\'92}{\f7\fs24 
 waiting lists.  MEMA is using a working estimate of 1300 replacement wells drilled, or waiting to be drilled, as a result of the drought.  It is difficult to judge how many individuals are out of water, since many do not report this information to their towns, and cannot afford or have decided not to have a well drilled and therefore do not show up on a 
}{\f7\fs24 well-driller\'92s}{\f7\fs24  list.   }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sb100\sa100\tx720{\f7\fs24 Almost all }{\f7\fs24 drillers}{\f7\fs24 
 are currently drilling only for customers who are out of water.  All other customers who want wells are being asked to wait.  }{\f7\fs24 Drillers}{\f7\fs24  are maintaining standard rate schedules although their costs are higher in winter months.  }{\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sb100\sa100\tx720{\f7\fs24 The ability to drill wells through the winter depends on the weather.  Most }{\f7\fs24 drillers}{\f7\fs24 
 are equipped to drill in very cold conditions.  However, water must run through piping on the rigs in order to drill.  When the wind chill drops significantly below freezing, productivity will drop dramatically and at times drilling is not possible at all. Therefore, depending upon the weather, the actual backlog has the potential to actually be somewhat shorter or potentially much longer than indicated above. 
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sb100\sa100\tx720{\f7\fs24 Since all of New England is experiencing some degree of drought, attracting drilling crews from other states is unlikely.  In addition, Maine\'92
s licensing and professional standards would have to be met by any }{\f7\fs24 driller}{\f7\fs24  from out of state.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sb100\sa100\tx720{\f7\fs24 
Maine roads are typically posted for weight restrictions beginning in the early spring.  Restrictions often exist in some areas to the end of May.  This will create a problem if large backlogs of wells to be drilled still exist, since the posting of roads will curtail movement of well drilling equipment.  MEMA is working with all involved on a solution to this problem.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Other Issues}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Lowering of the pump within the well may provide a short-term solution in some instances.  A licensed professional }{\f7\fs24 (well-driller}{\f7\fs24  or pump installer) should be contracted to do this.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Homeowners may opt to install storage tanks in their basements to store water either pumped from their wells at a low rate over a period of time, or to store water hauled from another site.  Homeowners are urged to put only water from a known clean source (such as a public water supply) into home water systems.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\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 }{\f7\fs24 
driller}{\f7\fs24  they are thinking of hiring is licensed and in good regulatory standing by contacting the Maine Well }{\f7\fs24 Drillers}{\f7\fs24  and Pump Installers Commission (207-287-5699)}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\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.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Not Recommended}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Some homeowners are resorting to having wells refilled, either through paying for a water hauler to make a delivery, or through town fire departments doing this as a service for residents.  }{\b\f7\fs24 This practice is not advisable.  }{\f7\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.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Economic Impact:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Hydroelectric production has been severely curtailed at all sites across the state.  This has resulted in reduced income for industries that sell power, and additional costs for paper companies that ordinarily produce much of their own power, and have now had to purchase additional power from other sources.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
A number of  public water supplies have had to make infrastructure improvements including drilling additional wells in order to meet their water needs.  The cost of these capital outlays is not yet determined.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Individuals who have lost private water supplies have expended personal capital to drill new wells, install storage systems, purchase drinking water or relocate their families.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Farmers have suffered crop loss, and in some cases have had to sell livestock at a loss because they lost water supply.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Because so much of the state\'92s tourism industry is dependent on water, from }{\f7\fs24 whitewater}{\f7\fs24 
 rafting to dug wells at camps all over inland Maine, a water resource crisis that continues into next summer will affect that industry greatly.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
All of these losses are difficult to quantify, but the aggregate is easily in the millions of dollars.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Sources of Assistance:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 USDA, Agricultural Disaster Assistance.}{\f7\fs24 
  A federal agricultural disaster declaration has been made for the State of Maine for the army worm infestation.  A declaration has also been requested for the summary drought conditions.  A variety of loan programs are made available when an agricultural disaster is declared.  Farmers should check with their Farm Service Agencies for information on available programs.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 USDA, Rural Development}{\f7\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 }{
\f7\fs24 written for as long as a 20-year term.  Grants are available to qualified applicants at least 62 years of age.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
More information on this program is available from USDA, Rural Development, at:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{
\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 Presque}{\f7\fs24  Isle (serves }{\f7\fs24 Aroostook}{\f7\fs24  and Washington Counties): 764-4155/4157.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24
\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 Bangor (serves Hancock, }{\f7\fs24 Knox,}{\f7\fs24  Lincoln, }{\f7\fs24 Penobscot,}{\f7\fs24  }{\f7\fs24 Piscataquis,}{\f7\fs24  }{\f7\fs24 Somerset}{\f7\fs24  and }{\f7\fs24 Waldo}{\f7
\fs24  Counties): 990-3676}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 Lewiston}{\f7\fs24  (serves }{\f7\fs24 Androscoggin,}{\f7\fs24 
 Cumberland, Franklin, }{\f7\fs24 Kennebec,}{\f7\fs24  Oxford, }{\f7\fs24 Sagadahoc,}{\f7\fs24  and York Counties):  753-9400}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),}{\f7\fs24 
 administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has one current program, and one program starting in the spring, that would allow towns to assist residents with water supply problems.  A town, group of towns or a county must be the applicant, and then develop a program to assist low or middle-income residents with the funds.  DECD advocates towns joining together to apply for grants.   The following CDBG programs have been identified as possible sources of assistance:
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Urgent Need Funds:}{\f7\fs24 
 A total pool of $200,000 is currently available.  There is a limit of $100,00 on any single grant.  Low to middle income residents are targeted.  The State of Georgia is currently using this program to help drill wells for individuals.}{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Innovative Housing Assistance Program}{\f7\fs24 : Available in early 2002, this program can be used for a specific housing need.  This requires a 20% soft match by the }{\f7\fs24 
community(ies).}{\f7\fs24   There is a limit of $400,000 per single grant.  Low to middle income families are targeted.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Housing Rehabilitation Grants}{\f7\fs24 
: If a community has an active grant, it may be modified to include well drilling if certain criteria are met.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 
Communities are urged to determine if these programs could help them to assist their citizens.}{\f7\fs24   }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
More information is available from DECD or the jurisdiction\'92s Regional Planning Commission.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f
}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 DECD: Mike }{\f7\fs24 Baran,}{\f7\fs24  624-9816, }{\f7\fs24 mike.baran@state.me.us}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 General Assistance:}{\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Individuals should check with town General Assistance (GA) Administrators to determine if their situation qualifies for assistance.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\i\f7\fs24 Community Support:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\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.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Public Information:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
In mid-December, Governor King held a media briefing on the drought situation, which focused atte}{\f7\fs24 n}{\f7\fs24 t}{\f7\fs24 i}{\f7\fs24 o}{\f7\fs24 n on th}{\f7\fs24 e probl}{\f7\fs24 e}{\f7\fs24 m}{\f7\fs24 
.  Concurrently, the Task Force launched a web site featuring tips for homeowners, links to scientific data, and all Task Force reports.  The address of the site is }{\b\f7\fs24 www.state.me.us/mema/drought}{\f7\fs24 .}{\f7\fs24 
  The site will continue to be updated with new information as long as drought conditions persist.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Maine Municipal Association }{\f7\fs24 (MMA)}{\f7\fs24 
 provided extensive information for communities through their December newsletter.  MEMA also published information in its newsletter, distributed to emergency managers across the state.  Reports and tips for homeowners were distributed to all State Legislators.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 A fact sheet for public water supplies was developed by Maine Rural Water Association, PUC and the Drinking Water Program and distributed to all water utilities.  }{
\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
The Department of Human Services, General Assistance program (GA) has communicated with towns about available assistance programs, and the inadvisability of refilling wells.  All agencies represented on the Task Force continue to respond to public and media inquiries, and to do outreach to their constituents.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Additional informational and educational resources are available through the National Drought Mitigation Center, connect with the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, online at \b\f7\fs24 {\field{\fldinst HYPERLINK "http://enso.unl.edu/ndmc"}{\fldrslt 
http://enso.unl.edu/ndmc}}}{\f7\fs24 .}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Action Steps:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody
\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 
State and Federal agencies and professional organizations will continue to offer technical assistance to communities, public water supplies and individuals, as they have done through this event.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720
{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 More public information will be developed, and various methods will be used to get the information distributed.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 Research will continue into possible sources of financial assistance.}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 
Organizations currently offering assistance programs will continue to assist applicants, and process applications as efficiently as possible.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf4\pnfs24\pnql
{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f4\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\f7\fs24 MEMA continue to work with all involved parties on the issue of road weight restrictions exemptions for well-drilling equipment.  }{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Conclusion:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Maine finds itself in late January still with }{\f7\fs24 soberingly}{\f7\fs24 
 low ground water and stream flow levels.  Weather outlooks make it doubtful that any more than normal precipitation will be experienced in the next weeks and months, which will not alleviate the drought conditions.  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.  
}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
The next meeting of the Drought Task Force is scheduled for March 7, 2002, concurrent with the annual meeting of the River Flow Advisory Commission.  All or selected members of the Task Force will come together sooner if conditions warrant.  }{\f7\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\b\f7\fs24 Information Resources:}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 U.S.}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 
 Geological Survey}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 207-622-8201}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{
\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 h}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 ttp://me.water.usgs.gov}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 National Weather Service, Gray, Maine}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 
207-688-3216}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259
\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 National Weather Service, Caribou, Maine}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 
\sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 207-496-8931}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/car}{
\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 
Maine Department of Conservation, Maine Geological Survey}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 207-287-2801}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 Maine Emergency Management Agency}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 207}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 -}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 626-4503}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/mema}{\cs14 \f6\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 
Maine Department of Human Services, State of Maine Drinking Water Program}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 207-287-2070}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/dhs/eng/water}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (CDBG information)}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 207-624-9816}{\f7\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s13 \fs24 {\f7\fs16 G:\DOCUMENTS\WEB\RFAC\development\reports\\{\field{\*\fldinst { FILENAME }}{\*\fldrslt Drought Report 012302.lwp}}}}