From the Town of Bethany, Emergency Management Department
Connecticut wells are drying up due to prolonged drought conditions, which are causing shallow wells to be particularly vulnerable, and a lack of significant rainfall is preventing aquifer recharge. Signs a well is drying up include low water pressure, sputtering faucets, the pump running more often, and unusual water taste or color.
The State of Connecticut has issued a Stage 2 Drought Advisory, which means that dry conditions are developing and could start to affect our water supplies, farms, and natural resources if they continue. Even though we’ve seen rain this week, a single rainfall event doesn’t erase ongoing drought conditions. Drought builds up over weeks or months of below-normal rainfall, and it takes steady, consistent precipitation to restore rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater levels.
The State of Connecticut recommendations include:
- Shutting down automatic outdoor irrigation;
- Minimizing overall water use by fixing leaky plumbing and fixtures; and
- Following any conservation requests issued by local water suppliers and municipalities.
A few more steps everyone can take to use water wisely:
- Lawn irrigation and ornamental watering should be adjusted to essential watering only
- Washing machines and dishwashers should only be run with full loads
- Avoid washing decks, sidewalks, driveways, and cars with hoses or power washers
These small actions can make a big difference in keeping Connecticut’s water systems healthy and avoiding more serious restrictions later on.
For more information and tips on saving water:
- Connecticut Drought Information: portal.ct.gov/Water/Drought
- Water Conservation Tips: epa.gov/watersense/start-saving
- Track Local Conditions: droughtmonitor.unl.edu
- Managing Water Use at Home: https://publications-extension.media.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/3795/2024/05/drought-home-water.pdf
What if your well is drying up during a Level 2 (incipient drought) situation:
· You should first try conservation, contact a well professional and have your water tested.
· Reporting the issue is also crucial for state-level monitoring, especially since a drying well is a direct impact of the drought conditions.
· You can report the issue to the state or to a local well contractor for assessment and potential solutions like lowering the pump.
Possible reasons your well is drying up:
· Low precipitation: The lack of rain has led to lower groundwater levels, which can cause wells to run dry, especially those that are shallower.
· Pump drawing faster than refill rate: When a well doesn't have enough water, the pump may draw air or sediment, leading to no water at the tap.
· Mechanical issues: Sometimes, a well not producing enough water can be due to mechanical problems with the pump, a faulty tank, or wiring, even if there is water in the ground.
Together, we can protect our water resources!