Under the auspices of the Land and Water Resources Council, the State currently is developing a statewide water use plan to address both the ecological and human needs for water supplies. For this effort to succeed, we must have a clear understanding of the amount of water currently used by the state s major water consumers. Maine does not have adequate information about who is withdrawing water from Maine s public waters, how much water is being withdrawn, or the locations it is being withdrawn from and returned to. Maine s lakes, rivers and streams belong to the people of Maine. But excessive removal of water threatens the health of our rivers, lakes and streams.
Healthy waterways are essential to Maine s ecology, economy and way of life.
Maine s public waterways need enough water, as well as clean water, to remain healthy. Adequate water flows ensure that stream channels form properly to control flooding and clear sediment, oxygenate water, ensure fish migration and reproduction, and much more. With healthy flows, rivers, lakes, and streams support a wealth of wildlife, fisheries, recreational opportunities and thriving economic sectors such as wildlife watching, fishing, birding, commercial fishing. Nearby and hydro-logically similar Northeast states, including New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut all have experienced serious water use challenges. Maine is no exception.