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\s12 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'76}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext12 Bullet 2;}{\s13 \fi-360\li360{\*\pn \pnlvlblt\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}\fs24 \sbasedon0\snext13 Bullet 1;}{\s14 \fs24 
\sbasedon0\snext14 Body Single;}{\s15 \fs24 \sbasedon0\snext15 Default Text;}{\*\cs16 \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 \s15 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\f6\fs24 River Flow Advisory Commission/}{\f6\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360{\f6\fs24 Drought Task Force Report\tab\tab}{\f6\fs24 March, 2002}}{\footerr \s15 \fs24 \tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360
{\fs24 \tab}{\f6\fs24 -{\field{\*\fldinst PAGE}{\fldrslt 1}}}{\f6\fs24 -}}\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 State of Maine}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 
River Flow Advisory Commission/Drought Task Force}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 Report on Current Conditions}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \qc{\b\fs24 March 7, 2002}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{
\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs22 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \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\s15 \fs24 \qc\sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs22 The Drought Task Force issued previous reports in August, September, November and December, 2001, and January 2002.}{
\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\fs22   }{\fs22 All previous reports are available on the Internet at }{\b\fs22 www.state.me.us/mema/drought}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\b\fs22 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 On March 7, 2002, the River Flow Advisory Commission and the State Drought Task Force held a combined meeting.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {
\fs24 The River Flow Advisory Commission meets at least once annually in the late winter to assess current hydrologic conditions and the potential for spring flooding.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
The Drought Task Force was convened in August of 2001, and held additional meetings throughout the fall.  The Commission and the Task Force share a core membership of state, federal and private sector agencies who deal with water resource issues.  They look at similar data in their deliberations; therefore this report will reflect concerns of both flood and drought.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Throughout this report, references are offered for further information.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Overview:}{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Despite a February in which precipitation across the state was slightly above normal, drought conditions have not substantially improved as the winter of 2001-2002  has progressed.  Although stream flows have approached normal for the end of February, ground water statistics as of the end of December show record and near-record lows in many instances, and the US Drought Monitor, issued by the Climate Prediction Center of the National Weather Service, continues to show the entire state in severe to extreme drought.   
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Even n}{\fs24 ormal precipitation from now through spring will not be sufficient to lift the state out of drought conditions.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Maine communities and residents who are experiencing water supply problems }{\i\fs24 
may experience some spring relief but should be aware that relief may be short-lived.  For others, problems may continue without relief}{\fs24 .  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Flood potential in the state is below normal, based on snowpack content and current streamflows.  Flooding can still occur even in the midst of drought conditions, as it did in 1987.  Too much rainfall in a short space of time can cause significant flooding at any time.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Current Conditions:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Streamflows and Runoff}{\fs24 :}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Streamflows were in the normal range throughout the state of Maine, except in portions of northern and southern Maine where runoff was below-normal.  Runoff was in the normal range throughout the state, except in portions of northern and southern Maine where runoff was in the below-normal range.  Runoff was below normal for the ninth consecutive month and for twelve of the last thirteen months at the Mattawamkeag River site.   
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Storage}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
The total amount of water in usable storage in the five reporting basins at the end of February was 23 percent of capacity, which is below the long-term end-of-February average of 44 percent.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Total quantity of water in usable storage decreased by 3,862 million cubic feet (mcf) and at the end of the month was 38,195 mcf. The following table shows conditions in the five reporting systems at the end of February, as reported by the river basin managers, expressed in percent of reservoir capacity. 
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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\s15 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 Reservoir System}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s15 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 
Reservoir Capacity }{\fs24 (mcf)*}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s15 \fs24 \qc{\fs24  This Month (% Full)}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s15 \fs24 \qc{\fs24 This Month Last Year (% Full)}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s15 \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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 St. }{\fs24 Croix}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 26,845}\cell
\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 31}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 46}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 55}\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
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 West Branch }{\fs24 Penobscot}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 58,700}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 9}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 30}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{
\fs24 39}\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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Kennebec}{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 44,730}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 
\qr{\fs24 32}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 36}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 45}\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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Androscoggin}
{\fs24  River Basin}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 28,100}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 30}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 39}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 39}\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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Sebago}{\fs24  Lake}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 9,700}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 22}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 
\qr{\fs24 34}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 45}\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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 TOTAL OF FIVE SYSTEMS}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 
168,075}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 23}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 36}\cell\pard\plain\intbl\s9 \qr\fs24 \qr{\fs24 44}\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\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 * }{
\fs24 mcf-millions}{\fs24  of cubic feet}\cell\row }\pard
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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.  Minimum flows have been reduced at sites on the }
{\fs24 Androscoggin,}{\fs24  }{\fs24 Kennebec,}{\fs24  }{\fs24 Presumpscot,}{\fs24  and St. }{\fs24 Croix}{\fs24  Rivers, as well as the West Branch of the }{\fs24 Penobscot.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24\expnd-1\expndtw-6\lang1033 
In the north country, regulated river flows are holding steady while reservoir levels continue to drop.  There is a general consensus among the river managers that current flows can be maintained using water currently in storage until spring.}{\fs24  }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Ground Water}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Ground-water levels were below-normal for the entire state of Maine .  Six of the ten wells recorded  record month-end lows for February. One well recorded an all time low. Two wells showed water-level decreases during the month. Water levels in seven wells had decreased when compared to water levels at the end of February 2001.
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The }{\fs24 USGS}{\fs24  Monthly Current Conditions Report for February is online at: }{\b\fs24 http://me.water.usgs.gov/0}{\b\fs24 2}{\b\fs24 .}{\b\fs24 feb}{\b\fs24 .html}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Weather and }{\i\fs24 Climatology:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
The US Drought Monitor, issued by the Climate Prediction Center, shows the entire state in severe to extreme drought.  Between 3 and 9 inches of rain in a week would be needed in one week to bring the index up to normal.}{\fs24   }{\fs24 
The winter of 2001-2002 (December through February) was the 15th driest on record.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Slightly above normal precipitation for February was more than balanced by below-normal totals for January, leaving dramatic precipitation deficits all over the state, as much as 20 inches below normal in some areas since January 2001.  In the short term, Maine is in a slightly more active weather pattern, which has brought some significant rainfall over much of the state in the last two weeks, and will bring more over the next 6 to 10 days.  Long-term weather forecasts, although approximate, indicate normal precipitation and temperatures.   
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The US Drought Monitor can be found online at: }{\b\fs24 http://enso.unl.edu/monitor/monitor.html}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Snow Survey:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Recent rainfall has wreaked havoc on the snowpack across the state.  The statewide snow survey conducted March 4 through 6 showed below normal water content levels in the snowpack through most of the state.  A band across central to northern Maine shows in the normal range, but values through this section are in the low end of normal.  W
}{\fs24 eekly surveys will cont}{\fs24 inue until snow has disappeared.  All snow survey reports and maps are posted on the Internet at }{\b\fs24 www.state.me.us/mema/weather/snow.htm.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The recent rain and premature runoff from the snowpack, before the ground has thawed enough to allow sign}{\fs24 i}{\fs24 ficant recharge of the groundwater, may have negative ramifications later on in the spring and summer.  }{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Flood Potential:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Flood potential is below normal across the state, based on snowpack water content and current streamflows.  However, flooding in Maine does not usually occur as a result of snowmelt alone.  A severe rain event dropping a large amount of rain in a short period of time could still create extreme flooding.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Ice conditions are not expected to contribute to flood potential this spring.  In southern Maine, rivers and streams are virtually free of ice.  In northern Maine, open channels were noted in many rivers, with the ice showing signs of rot.  However, ice conditions will be monitored locally until rivers are clear. 
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Because of the great attention being given to the current drought conditions, it is likely that the public is not attuned to flooding dangers.  Special public information efforts may be needed to keep up awareness of flood potential.  }{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24\lang1033 Summary}{\fs24\lang1033 :}{\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\f3\fs24\lang1033 
Despite above normal precipitation for February, and expected rainfall in the first half of March, drought conditions persist.  Premature loss of water from the snowpack may mean less spring recharge over, although streamflows}{\f3\fs24\lang1033 
, in all but southern Maine, have come into the normal range for the time being.  Reservoirs have begun to fill almost a month before the historical start of runoff.  Spring recharge conditions will be closely monitored, and reassessed in early May.  }{
\b\f3\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Background information}{\b\fs24 : }{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 
http://www.umaine.edu/maineclimate}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/ol/climate/research/prelim/US/US_prelim.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 
http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/spi.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24\lang1033 http://lwf.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/research/prelim/drought/palmer.html}{\b\fs24\lang1033 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {
\b\fs24 http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/cdus/palmer_drought/}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://enso.unl.edu/ndmc/enigma/indices.htm#palmer}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Weather sites:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/car}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.state.me.us/mema/weather/genweath.htm}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Flood Insurance Program Update:}{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s6 \fs24\lang1033 {\fs24 Even in this year of drought, with winter\'92
s ice and with spring rains, flooding is always a threat to those properties that are in the floodplain.  In fact flooding can happen any time of the year.  One very important item that property owners and renters should consider is the purchase of flood insurance.  Unfortunately, many individuals think that their homeowner
\'92s or business owner\'92s insurance policy will cover any losses.  These insurance policies typically do NOT cover damages from flooding.  Flood Insurance must be purchased separately.  }{\i\fs24 There is a 30-day waiting period}{\fs24 
 before the policy goes into effect. Some estimates indicate that only 21% of those structures in the floodplain in Maine are covered by flood insurance.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 
Public Water Supplies:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The PUC reports that Island Falls, }{\fs24 Monson,}{\fs24  Mt. Desert, New Portland, Port }{\fs24 Clyde,}{\fs24 
 Winter Harbor public water systems have requested voluntary conservation and }{\fs24 Castine}{\fs24  has imposed mandatory water restrictions.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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 
}{\fs24 USGS,}{\fs24  }{\fs24 NWS,}{\fs24  Drinking Water Program and MEMA are expected to participate}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Private Water Supplies:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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\fs24 \par
}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Well Drilling}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Well }{\fs24 drillers}{\fs24 
 continue to be extremely busy.  On the average, the wait time between contacting a }{\fs24 driller}{\fs24  and the start of the job is measured in multiple weeks.  Almost all }{\fs24 drillers}{\fs24 
 are currently drilling only for customers who are out of water.  Attention being paid to emergency cases is causing construction deadlines to fall behind.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \tx720{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \tx720{\fs24 
Due to the early warm-up and rain, local road restrictions have gone up in many parts of the state.  An emergency bill in the legislature would loosen permit restrictions on the movement of well-drilling equipment on posted roads.  LD 2150 was voted  \'93
Ought to Pass \'93 by the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation on March 7.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \tx720{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Public Water Supplies:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The State Drinking Water Program has is working with some 40 public water supplies on emergency permitting.  These locations have had to drill new wells or make other infrastructure changes to cope with water shortages.  }{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 It is expected that seasonal business owners may discover water shortages when they arrive to open their ca}{\fs24 m}{\fs24 
pgrounds, restaurants and other businesses this spring.  This may well engender a surge in requests for emergency well siting and permits.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Fire Suppression:}{\i\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Several rural counties have reported concerns about fire suppression in the spring and summer months.  The ponds and streams that supply dry hydrant systems are very low; this water resource may not be available for fire fighting in rural areas.  In addition, large amounts of water for fire 
}{\fs24 fighting drawn from a municipal water system may create a problem for a system with closely managed supplies.  }{\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Other Issues}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 
{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Information for Homeowners:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Not Recommended}{\fs24 :}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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\fs24 This practice is not advisable.  }{\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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Economic Impact:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Farmers have suffered crop loss, and in some cases have had to sell livestock at a loss because they lost water supply.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
Because so much of the state\'92s tourism industry is dependent on water, from }{\fs24 whitewater}{\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.  }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 All of these losses are difficult to quantify, but the aggregate is easily in the millions of dollars.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Sources of Assistance:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 USDA, Agricultural Disaster Assistance.}{\fs24   Implementation of the Emergenc}{\fs24 
y Conservation Program has just been approved for Maine, which can provide grants up to 50% for well-drilling or other water transport or delivery costs, A variety of other programs will be made available if  an agricultural disaster is declared.  Farmers should check with their Farm Service Agencies for information on available programs.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 More information on this program is available from USDA, Rural Development, at:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn 
\pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 Presque}{\fs24  Isle (serves }{\fs24 Aroostook}{\fs24  and Washington Counties): 764-4155/4157.}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720
{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\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 \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 More information is available from DECD or the jurisdiction\'92s Regional Planning Commission.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360
\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 DECD: Mike }{\fs24 Baran,}{\fs24  624-9816, }{\fs24 mike.baran@state.me.us}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 General Assistance:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Individuals should check with town General Assistance (GA) Administrators to determine if their situation qualifies for assistance.  }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Community Support:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Public Information:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Flood}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain 
\s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The National Weather Service Forecast Offices in Gray and Caribou designated Friday, March 8 as \'93Flood Awareness Day\'94.  They distributed flood awareness and preparedness information to media outlet across Maine.  }{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\b\fs24  }{\b\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 http://}{\b\fs24 www.nws.noaa.gov/er/}{\b\fs24 car}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
The State Planning Office, Floodplain Management Program, issued a press release early in March emphasizing that homeowners insurance does not cover flooding, and that there is a 30-day waiting period after the purchase of a policy before that policy goes into effect.  This press release is available online at: 
\cf2\fs24 {\field{\fldinst HYPERLINK "www.state.me.us/spo/flood/flood.htm"}{\fldrslt www.state.me.us/spo/flood/flood.htm}}}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\i\fs24 Drought}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 
The Maine Rural Water Program has sponsored a series of workshops for their members, in which the }{\fs24 D}{\fs24 rinking Water Program}{\fs24 ,}{\fs24  MEMA, }{\fs24 USGS}{\fs24  and }{\fs24 NWS}{\fs24 
 all participated.  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 \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Action Steps:}{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\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.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn 
\pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 
A renewed effort will be put on data collection, to assess the costs accrued by public facilities, and the numbers of households with dry or problem wells.  }{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \fi-360\li720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\pnindent360\pnhang\pnf5\pnfs24
\pnql{\pntxtb \'9f}}{\pntext\pard\plain\f5\fs24 \'9f\tab}{\fs24 A subgroup of the Task Force will look at any potential impediments to expedited permitting for water utilities making drought-related emergency infrastructure repairs or improvements.  }{
\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Conclusion:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Maine finds itself in early March still with }{\fs24 soberingly}{\fs24 
 low ground water levels.  Below normal water content in the snowpack and long-term predictions for only normal precipitation make it unlikely that drought conditions will be quickly alleviated, although a short term spring recharge will bring some normalcy back to streamflows.  
}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 Flood potential is below normal, but public officials should keep in mind that major flooding can occur even in the midst of drought conditions, as occurred in 1987.  }{\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \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 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 The next meeting of the Drought Task Force is scheduled for early May, 2002.  All or selected members of the Task Force will come together sooner if conditions warrant.  }{\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\b\fs24 Information Resources:}{\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 {\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 U.S.}{
\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24  Geological Survey}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207-622-8201}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
\par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 http://me.water.usgs.gov}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}

\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 National Weather Service, Gray, Maine}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 
207-688-3216}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/gyx}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259
\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 \sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 National Weather Service, Caribou, Maine}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
\pard\plain \s15 \fs24 
\sl-259\slmult0{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 207-496-8931}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
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Maine Department of Conservation, Maine Geological Survey}{\cs16 \f8\fs24\cf0\expnd0\expndtw0\f0\fs24 \par}
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Maine Department of Human Services, State of Maine Drinking Water Program}{\fs24 \par}
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