DPW Releases Q1 2026 Drinking Water Supply Updates for the Portsmouth and Pease Tradeport Water Systems

The City of Portsmouth’s water supply sources have continued to perform reliably despite ongoing drought conditions that began in June 2025. Although the Bellamy Reservoir, Portsmouth’s primary surface water source, reached levels lower than those observed during the 2022 and 2024 droughts, reservoir storage stayed above the more critical lows recorded in 2016 and 2020. Groundwater levels are currently below seasonal norms; however, the Bellamy Reservoir has fully recovered.

As a result, water treatment operations have temporarily shifted toward greater use of surface water withdrawals while local groundwater aquifers continue to recharge during the spring months. During the first quarter of the year, approximately 73 percent of the City’s total water supply was sourced from treated water from the Bellamy Reservoir. Seasonal conditions have also helped reduce overall demand, as cooler temperatures and decreased outdoor irrigation have contributed to lower water use.

If drought conditions persist through late May or the start of June, water use restrictions will likely be introduced. In the meantime, the City’s Water Department encourages all customers to continue using water efficiently and to remain mindful of their water consumption to help protect this essential natural resource. View the full supply status report here!