Navigating New Hampshire’s Drought: Steps to Conserve Water and Prepare for Winter
“New Hampshire is currently experiencing varying levels of drought, ranging from 'abnormally dry' to 'extreme drought,' depending on the region.” - NHDES
Introduction:
Hello, neighbors! It’s no secret that New Hampshire is feeling the effects of a significant drought. With much of our state classified as either "abnormally dry" or in "moderate drought," and even severe drought conditions in some coastal areas like Portsmouth and Hampton, it’s a challenge we all need to tackle together. Let’s dive into what’s happening, what we can do to help, and how to get our homes winter-ready.
Right now, 58% of New Hampshire is "abnormally dry" (D0) and 41% is in "moderate drought" (D1). [Understanding Droughts Video]
What’s Going On with the Drought?
Right now, 58% of New Hampshire is "abnormally dry" (D0) and 41% is in "moderate drought" (D1). If you’re along the coast, the situation is even tougher, with some areas facing severe drought (D2) conditions.
Why? The main culprits are below-average rainfall and low groundwater levels. While droughts aren’t entirely new to New Hampshire (we’ve had 11 in the past 20 years), their impact can still hit hard. Water restrictions are already in place in many communities to make sure we prioritize critical needs like drinking water and firefighting.
As the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) puts it, this is a time for all of us to be mindful and proactive:
"New Hampshire is currently experiencing varying levels of drought, ranging from 'abnormally dry' to 'extreme drought,' depending on the region."
How Can We Help?
When it comes to drought management, every little action counts. Whether it’s what you do at home or as part of the larger community, we can all make a difference.
At Home:
Stick to water restrictions. They’re there for a reason!
Check your private well. If you rely on one, keep an eye on its levels and have a backup plan ready just in case.
Conserve water. Fix those pesky leaks, upgrade to water-efficient appliances, and think about rainwater collection systems.
In the Community:
Stay informed. The NHDES website is a great resource for updates and tips.
Work together. A community approach makes managing drought impacts more effective.
As the NHDES advises:
"If you rely on a private well, consider monitoring its levels closely. Emergency plans are available to address well failures, a common issue during prolonged droughts."
Get Ready for Winter: Protect Your Pipes
While we’re thinking about water, it’s also a good time to make sure your home is ready for winter. Frozen pipes can lead to expensive repairs—not what anyone wants during a New Hampshire winter!
Winterizing Tips:
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like your attic, basement, and garage.
Shut off and drain outdoor water lines and sprinkler systems.
Seal gaps around windows and doors to stop cold drafts.
On especially cold nights, let faucets drip to keep water moving through pipes.
Keep the heat on! Even when you’re away, set your thermostat to at least 55°F.
If you have a vacant home, consider fully draining the plumbing system and using antifreeze in toilets and drains.
"Winterizing your home’s water system is crucial to prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs during the cold months."
Why It All Matters
The drought in New Hampshire is a challenge, but it’s one we can face together by conserving water and being prepared for winter. Small steps, like following local water restrictions and insulating pipes, can have a big impact. Staying informed through resources like the NHDES will also help us navigate these tough conditions.
Let’s work together to protect our resources, our homes, and each other!
