The Connecticut Interagency Drought Workgroup has listed New London County, along with Hartford, Tolland and Windham counties, in Stage 3, or "moderate," drought.

“Reports of low water levels in private wells, streams, agricultural water supplies, and fire suppression ponds have been increasing especially in eastern Connecticut,” according to a notice from the agency. “Due to the unusually dry soils, the rain that does fall does not soak into the ground and the threat of fire returns soon after the rain ends. Residents are reminded to monitor daily forest fire danger reports and plan outdoor burning accordingly, especially in areas dependent on fire ponds that might not be usable.”

The agency provided the following tips for people in the moderate drought areas:

• Stop irrigation of lawns and limit outdoor water uses

• Prepare for alternative water sources in the event that wells, farm ponds, fire suppression supplies or other critical water sources become depleted

• Avoid burning in or near woodlands or brushlands, and follow municipal or state orders for outdoor burning bans

• People using private wells should limit water use to only essential needs to reduce the chance of well depletion

Groton Utilities said in a post that water utilities consider water storage when determining their drought plans, rather than the state's criteria of precipitation. Groton Utilities’ water storage is at 70%, and the utility would start taking action if capacity dipped to 50%.

GU said that it “plans and prepares for drought and any emergency conditions, has an abundance of water in supply, and technically qualified staff to ensure our continued service to our valued customers.” The utility said its 15-square-mile watershed is resilient and the utility also “takes advantage of groundwater reserves through closed and open well systems.”

The utility is encouraging, though not presently mandating, people to follow voluntary conservation methods. People with questions can call (860) 446-4000.

Norwich Public Utilities Spokesman Chris Riley said the utility is still watching very closely the production at its plants and water usage by its customers, but has not issued any advisories. The utility said it is still pretty close to its five-year average for capacity in its reservoirs.