Maine Water Levels Hit Record Lows Amid Prolonged Drought

Waterways across Maine are dropping to historic lows following one of the driest summers on record.

According to Nick Stasulis of the U.S. Geological Survey and Maine Drought Task Force, the issue stems from a lack of rainfall coupled with high evaporation rates. “Not only are we missing the rainfall, but we’re losing the water we do have in our streams to evaporation,” Stasulis explained.

According to WGME 13, the USGS tracks streamflow across the country, and in Maine, nearly a dozen streams are reporting record-low levels for this date. Two dozen more are hovering just above their all-time lows.

Stasulis told the news station that droughts typically peak in the spring when snowmelt and seasonal rains boost water levels. “If we’re setting records in September, that’s really noticeable,” he said.

Local residents are also taking note. Craig Colby, who lives along the Kennebec River in Augusta told channel 13 that he can’t recall seeing the water so depleted. “Everything is just wicked low,” Colby said. “It looks more like late winter when the snow has melted and the grass is dead.”

The drought is also taking a toll on businesses. Julie Sloan, owner of Maine River Runners, said her kayak and paddleboard rentals saw reduced activity over the summer. “We’re sustaining,” Sloan said. “But one of my biggest concerns with the river is the environmental and ecological standpoint.”

With dry conditions expected to persist, the U.S. Drought Monitor projects little relief in the coming weeks.