By Granite State Report
Introduction: A State of Dry Emergency
The Granite State has always prided itself on its rolling hills, fertile valleys, and the small family farms that dot its landscape. But in recent years, those farms have been facing a new kind of adversary — not pests, not market fluctuations, but the sky itself.
Drought, once considered a problem for the American West, is now a recurring reality in New Hampshire. The U.S. Drought Monitor has repeatedly placed large portions of the state under “moderate” to “severe” drought conditions during the past five summers (NOAA, 2023). For farmers, that means more than just dry fields — it means lost income, shrinking yields, and in some cases, the very survival of their businesses.
This report dives deep into how New Hampshire’s farmers are adapting, what’s at stake for the state’s economy and food security, and what lessons can be drawn from other regions. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and the stubborn determination of people who refuse to let their land go barren.
Section 1: The Drought Reality in New Hampshire
A Changing Climate in the Granite State
Historically, New Hampshire has enjoyed a relatively stable climate compared to other regions. But climate data shows a troubling trend: wetter winters and springs, followed by hotter, drier summers. This seasonal imbalance creates a paradox — flooding in April, parched fields in August.
- Rainfall Deficits: In 2022, rainfall was 6–10 inches below average in southern and central New Hampshire (NH Department of Environmental Services).
- River Levels: The Merrimack and Connecticut Rivers ran at some of their lowest levels in decades, forcing irrigation restrictions.
- Crop Losses: Farmers reported losing 20–40% of yields in hay, corn, and vegetables.
The Human Toll
For farmers, drought isn’t just a weather event — it’s a financial and emotional crisis. “We can’t plan anymore,” says Sarah Smith, a vegetable grower in Merrimack County. “One year it’s floods, the next it’s drought. We’re constantly reacting instead of farming.”
Section 2: Farmers on the Frontlines
Drip Irrigation: Every Drop Counts
One of the most significant shifts has been the adoption of drip irrigation systems, which deliver water directly to plant roots. Unlike traditional sprinklers, drip systems reduce evaporation and can cut water use by up to 60% (USDA NRCS).
- Case Study: A small farm in Hillsborough County reported saving 40,000 gallons of water in a single season after switching to drip irrigation.
Cover Crops and Soil Health
Farmers are also turning to cover crops like rye, clover, and vetch. These plants help retain soil moisture, reduce erosion, and improve fertility.
- “We’re farming the soil, not just the crops,” explains Emily Chen, an organic grower. “Healthy soil holds water better, and that’s our best defense against drought.”
Diversification of Crops
Some dairy farms are experimenting with drought-resistant forage crops such as sorghum and millet, which require less water than traditional corn silage.
Technology in the Fields
From soil moisture sensors to satellite data, technology is becoming a lifeline. Farmers can now monitor conditions in real time and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly.
Section 3: The Economic Fallout
Agriculture’s Role in NH’s Economy
Agriculture may not dominate New Hampshire’s economy the way it does in the Midwest, but it still contributes over $1.2 billion annually (UNH Cooperative Extension, 2022). Beyond dollars, farms support rural communities, preserve open space, and fuel the state’s growing agritourism sector.
Rising Costs
- Feed Prices: With hay yields down, dairy farmers are buying feed from out of state — sometimes at double the usual cost.
- Orchards: Apple growers report smaller fruit sizes, which reduces market value.
- Labor: Drought often means more labor hours spent irrigating and managing stressed crops.
The Ripple Effect
When farms struggle, so do local businesses. Equipment suppliers, farmers’ markets, and even restaurants that rely on local produce feel the pinch.
🎥 How Farmers Are Adapting to Climate Change
Section 4: Climate Change and the Bigger Picture
New Hampshire’s droughts are not isolated weather events — they’re part of a larger climate shift reshaping New England. Scientists note that the region is experiencing warmer average temperatures, wetter winters, and drier summers.
- Temperature Rise: Average annual temperatures in New Hampshire have increased by nearly 3°F since 1900 (EPA Climate Indicators).
- Precipitation Patterns: While total annual precipitation has increased, it’s falling in fewer, heavier storms — meaning less steady water for crops.
- Soil Stress: These extremes degrade soil health, making it harder for fields to retain moisture.
🎥 NH farmers try to deal with weather extremes from changing …
Section 5: Policy and Government Response
Federal Support
The USDA has expanded drought relief programs, offering emergency loans, crop insurance, and technical assistance. However, many small farms in New Hampshire say the aid is too slow or too limited to cover real losses.
State Initiatives
- The NH Department of Agriculture has launched water conservation campaigns and partnered with conservation districts to promote soil health.
- 🎥 NH Conservation Districts Climate Resilience Grant: Spring …
Local Action
Some towns are debating water rights reforms, prioritizing agriculture during shortages. This is controversial, as it pits farms against residential and industrial water users.
Section 6: Voices from the Field
- “We lost nearly half our hay crop last year. Without federal aid, we’d be out of business.” – John Miller, Grafton County dairy farmer
- “We’re experimenting with regenerative practices. It’s not just about surviving this year — it’s about building resilience for the next 20.” – Emily Chen, organic vegetable grower in Hillsborough
🎥 Local farms prepare to feel drought effects on products into …
Section 7: Lessons from Other Regions
- California: Long‑term drought has forced massive investments in groundwater banking and desalination.
- Arizona: Strict water quotas have pushed farmers to switch from alfalfa to less thirsty crops.
- Vermont: Agroforestry and diversified farming are helping retain soil moisture.
🎥 ‘Extreme drought’ in Lewis County impacting farmers
Section 8: Specialty Crops at Risk
Specialty crops like Christmas trees — a major part of New Hampshire’s seasonal economy — are also at risk.
- Drought stress leads to stunted growth, needle loss, and higher mortality rates in young trees.
- This threatens not only farm income but also the state’s holiday tourism industry.
🎥 What is the drought’s impact on Christmas trees?
Section 9: Community and Backyard Solutions
It’s not only large farms that need to adapt — homeowners and small growers also play a role.
🎥 Backyard Habitat in a Changing Climate
When individuals adopt water‑wise practices, they reduce pressure on shared resources and strengthen the region’s overall resilience.
Section 10: The Future of Farming in NH
- Agri‑tech startups are emerging in New England, offering AI‑driven irrigation systems.
- Young farmers are entering the field with sustainability as their guiding principle.
- Consumer awareness is growing — local food movements are helping farms stay afloat.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
New Hampshire’s farmers are on the frontlines of climate change. Their struggle is not just about crops — it’s about the future of food security, rural economies, and cultural traditions in the Granite State.
The drought crisis demands collective action:
- Farmers must continue to innovate.
- Policymakers must prioritize resilience.
- Communities must support sustainable practices.
- Consumers must recognize their role in sustaining local agriculture.
If New Hampshire can rise to this challenge, it won’t just survive the dry spells — it will emerge as a resilient leader in farming.
