Vermont Drought Update

Current Conditions

•  Fire danger is High statewide. Burn permits are suspended until conditions improve. Do not burn.
• 15 stream gauges report record lows; 4 show no flow. Vermont is seeing the lowest streamflow in 124 years. August was the driest on record.
• Well drillers and water haulers are at full capacity, with some booked into next spring.
• Farmers report heavy feed use, fewer hay cuts, corn losses, stressed fruit trees, and soil health concerns that could last beyond this year.

Why Reporting Matters

Your reports help set drought classifications, which in turn unlock federal aid and technical assistance for communities and farmers. Every report makes a difference.

How to Report Drought Impacts:

• Private wells/springs: Report low or dry conditions through the DEC Drought Reporter.
• Public water systems: Call Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection (802-828-1535).
• Farms: Report crop loss, dry fields, feed shortages, or water issues to the Agency of Agriculture (802-828-2430 or AGR.Helpdesk@vermont.gov).
• Other impacts: Use the Conditions Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR) to share photos or impacts such as dry streams, stressed vegetation, or wildfires.

We can all help ease pressure on local water systems:

• Skip car washing and lawn watering.
• Fix leaks quickly.
• Run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
• Install low-flow showerheads or faucet aerators.

Resources for Dry Wells or Water Shortages

Homeowners: If your private well or spring is low or dry, visit the Health Department’s Drought and Your Well web page for short- and long term solutions, or call the Health Department at 802-489-7339.

If supplemental drilling is needed, DEC can provide permitting guidance and may be able to provide loans through the Onsite Loan Program that can help pay for a new well.

Droughts can also affect water quality in many ways. The Health Department recommends testing your private well or spring if you notice changes in your water, like cloudiness, color or smell. Order the Vermont Homeowner Testing Package online or call 800-660-9997.

Farmers: If farms are experiencing a critical shortage of water, they can reach out to these businesses for help hauling water. If the drought persists, financial assistance may be available from USDA in the future.

Public Water System: If a public drinking water system is experiencing problems due to drought, contact the Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division at 802-828-1535 to discuss technical and financial support.

More resources are available at: EPA WaterSense.