Remembering the dry spell of 2025 and preparing for an unpredictable summer
This spring has been cold and rainy, making it easy to forget the “flash drought” of 2025. However, for residents whose wells ran dry last summer, that extended dry spell is not so easily forgotten. Some predictions suggest this summer could be just as bad, if not worse.
Even during a wet summer, Harpswell’s geography—characterized by narrow peninsulas and steep coastlines—causes it to lose 80% of its rainwater to evaporation and runoff. This leaves very little fresh water available, and what remains disappears quickly. It is estimated that 550,000 gallons of water are withdrawn from Harpswell’s aquifers every single day during the summer. Consequently, preserving the rainwater that falls on your property is crucial to the health of your well.
The hidden battle in your garden between native plants and aggressive invaders
Reduced rainfall impacts more than just your well water replenishment; it can also severely damage your yard. Drought creates harsh conditions where many invasive plants thrive. Non-native species like Japanese knotweed, bittersweet, barberry, bush honeysuckle, and burning bush often outcompete native plants for water and nutrients when resources are scarce. If you are conserving water and cannot water your yard during an extended drought, these weeds will benefit.
To protect both your well and your garden, you can capture rainwater from your roof before it flows into the ocean by installing a rain barrel. Rain barrels are an easy, efficient, and often overlooked solution for harvesting water. For example, a 50-gallon rain barrel can fill up in just 10 to 30 minutes during a moderate rainstorm. You can then use this water to irrigate your garden, water houseplants, or wash your car (though it is not safe for drinking).
DIY or store-bought? Navigating the logistics, costs, and setup of home rain barrels
Savvy do-it-yourselfers can build a rain barrel for about $15 in materials. Alternatively, a pre-made 50-gallon barrel costs between $80 and $150 at big-box stores. Aside from the initial cost, there are a few logistical factors to consider:
- Placement: Determine where to site your barrel to best capitalize on roof runoff. You can insert flexible downspout attachments to divert water directly into it.
- Elevation: Set up a secure base. Elevating the barrel maximizes water pressure, though you can also use a small pump if the barrel sits close to the ground.
- Pest Control: Most barrels include a mosquito filter, but you can also occasionally drop in biological control pellets like Mosquito Bits.
HIPP introduces rebate offer to encourage Harpswell residents to put in rain barrels
Despite these considerations, conserving water ahead of the next drought is well worth the effort. To encourage installation, the Harpswell Invasive Plant Partnership (HIPP) is offering a $25 rebate to the first 20 applicants. This offer is open to all Harpswell residents, excluding HIPP volunteers. To apply, simply email a photo of your receipt and your newly installed rain barrel to [email protected], and HIPP will mail you a check.
For more information on the rebate program, local retailers, and a how-to video, visit the rain barrel rebate page at hippmaine.org. Let this be the year you proactively support your well and garden by watering with rain!
Example rain barrel installation