Drought Task Force

The Maine Drought Task Force (Task Force) coordinates drought monitoring, assessment, and response across the state. Its role is to facilitate communication and situational awareness, develop a unified assessment of drought conditions, and provide recommendations to the Governor or other relevant organizations.

The Task Force activates when abnormally dry conditions in Maine escalate. Activation is led by Task Force Chairs from MEMA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). During active drought conditions, MEMA organizes monthly meetings to review monitoring data, track trends, and identify actions to reduce drought impacts. Observations from multiple agencies and organizations are summarized in concise reports, which are publicly available below. When dry conditions develop but do not worsen rapidly, the Task Force conducts a preliminary activation, relying on email coordination to compile its report.

During severe droughts, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture may issue a disaster declaration to support farmers affected by crop losses. Under this declaration, the Small Business Administration provides Economic Injury Disaster Loans to eligible businesses and agricultural operations. These loans can help cover fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other essential expenses but are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Maine Emergency Management Agency has prepared a survey for the public to report private dry wells in the state of Maine. Data collected through these reports helps determine the scope and magnitude of private dry well conditions across the state. Please note: submitting a report is not a request for assistance. For help locating local community water resources, contact your Town or City municipal office.

Recent Reports

View prior years reports.

    Resources

    Financial & Assistance Programs

    Public Water & Private Well Guidance

    Monitoring & Forecasting Tools

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