Two years ago, in 2023, water rushed over the dam at Chase’s Pond year-round for the first time in recent memory—even during the height of summer, when temperatures soared, and water demand peaked. Traditionally, the water supply level will drop in July during peak demand and then recharge and overflow again in late January. A rainy summer might seem especially notable in York, as this is typically when residents and visitors alike flock to the beaches for warm, sunny days. But our town wasn’t the only one affected that year. 2023 shattered weather records across Maine, making for the state’s wettest year since 1917, with an average of more than 17 total inches of rainfall.

After such a wet year, it seemed like we might never see a drought again—but alas, New England weather is nothing if not uncertain.

In 2024, the region faced drought conditions significant enough to require proactive measures from York Water District staff:

• We collaborated with our neighbors at the Kittery Water District, who allowed our staff to siphon approximately 60 million gallons from the Folly Pond reservoir into Chase's Pond reservoir—an effort that really helped to preserve our water supply through a difficult time.

• We asked our customers to practice voluntary conservation efforts on all non-essential water use.

Even with these proactive measures, Chase’s Pond ended 2024 at one of its lowest levels in 30 years. Fortunately, there is currently an abundant snowpack that should replenish our reservoir back to full levels by spring.

The town’s annual population continues to grow as seasonal residents arrive in droves, drawn by our beautiful beaches, vibrant shopping and dining scene, and lively nightlife. As our 2025 season begins, one thing we can accurately predict is that demand on our water resources will continue to rise if we don't take action.

While we strive to protect our watershed and work hard to maintain excellent water quality, we cannot control the quantity of our water supply—that depends on the whims of Mother Nature. What we can control, however, is how we use it. Practicing good conservation habits year-round is the key to a sustainable future.

As we all leave winter behind and start getting outside to enjoy the sunshine and the beauty brought on by the annual renewal of spring, please keep in mind the following water conservation tips:

• When choosing plants for your garden or landscape, group plants by water needs. Look for species that are drought tolerant and do not require large amounts of water to thrive.

  • For perennial flowers, you could plant Black-Eyed Susan, Coneflower, or Yarrow. Northern Bayberry and Virginia Rose are native shrubs which are also hardy and require little water, once established.

• Using mulch in your gardens/landscape helps retain soil moisture thereby conserving and extending available water use.

• Use drip irrigation when possible. Drip irrigation conserves water by delivering it directly to the roots and minimizes evaporation and excessive runoff.

  • When setting up irrigation for your garden, ensure all fittings are tight and that there are no leaks in any of the lines. Even a small leak, left unpatched, can lead to significant water losses over time, and will have a large financial impact on your water bill.

• Incorporating soil amendments like compost, grass clippings, or wood chips can improve moisture retention, reducing the frequency of watering.

• When cleaning sand and debris from paved areas like a driveway or sidewalk, use a broom instead of spraying with water.

• Pay attention to rein in the forecast and avoid watering the garden if it's expected soon.

• Reduce the amount of time you spend in the shower, ideally keeping showers to around 5 minutes.

• When showering, turn off the water while shampooing and lathering up.

• Install low-flow faucet aerators to reduce water usage.

• When shaving, fill the sink with just a few inches of water to rinse the razor.

• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.

By taking small but meaningful steps, we can all contribute to preserving our water supply for the future.