← Back to Home

Drought conditions creating water shortages for residents

Franklin, Vt. – The latest drought monitor came out today and it shows that Lamoille, Orleans and Franklin counties are still experiencing severe drought conditions.
Signs warning residents to conserve and boil water are plastered on the front door of the Franklin general store.
"There’s been a huge lack of rain all summer and it’s been a very hot summer," said Bill Mayo, Owner of the Franklin General Store.
In the 20 years bill mayo has lived in Franklin, he says he’s never seen a drought like this one.
"Were in dire straits right now," said Mayo.
In his store, hundreds of gallons of water sit next to the soda machine, with a sign that reads, ‘fountain soda down until further notice’.
So far, the town has trucked in close to 11,000 gallons of water to replenish the spring water system on Webster Street, where nearly a hundred people get their water from.
He says after checking for leaks, the drought was to blame.
"While the spring output has certainly diminished people have really been conserving water quite a bit," said Alexant.
"If I could do a rain dance and help I’d do it but right now at this point all we can do is pray we get some rains," said Mayo.

Learn More