Full Breakdown
Poland Spring's Water Withdrawals Amid Maine's Drought
12/9/2025, 11:19:57 AM
Overview of the Drought Situation
Since mid-August, Maine has been experiencing a drought, with the U.S. Drought Monitor indicating that the entire state remains affected. Despite these conditions, Poland Spring, a bottling company based in Maine, has reportedly increased its water withdrawals from local springs, raising concerns among residents and environmental advocates.
Poland Spring's Water Withdrawal Practices
Recent investigations by the nonprofit media organization More Perfect Union revealed that Poland Spring has been pumping more water than ever, contradicting its claims of reduced withdrawals during the drought. Data reviewed by NEWS CENTER Maine showed that in Fryeburg, Poland Spring withdrew 12.8 million gallons in August 2025, 12.2 million gallons in September, and 10.7 million gallons in October, marking a 28 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. In Denmark, the company’s withdrawals rose by approximately 8 percent during the same timeframe, while a decrease of 13 percent was noted in Hollis.
Poland Spring maintains that it only withdraws amounts that can be sustainably supported by the springs. The company stated, “Attention to the conditions of our state and compliance with our local permits is always a priority.” They also emphasized that independent licensed professionals have verified that their withdrawals have not adversely impacted local resources.
Official Statements & Responses
Poland Spring has asserted that its overall water withdrawals for 2024 and 2025 are comparable, with the 2025 figures being slightly lower. The company explained that during drought conditions, it adjusts its water collection from a network of geographically diverse sources, which may lead to month-to-month fluctuations in usage. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) supports this approach, stating that their permitting standards ensure that groundwater extraction does not negatively affect state waters or private wells.
Criticism & Opposition
Residents and environmental advocates have expressed frustration regarding Poland Spring's increased water withdrawals during a drought. Paul Blest, a producer for More Perfect Union, noted, “There was real frustration that I heard from people about what Poland Spring is doing, and especially during a drought.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among the community about the sustainability of water resources in the face of ongoing drought conditions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Poland Spring claims that its water withdrawals are managed sustainably and comparable to previous years, the data indicating increased withdrawals during a drought raises questions about the company's practices. The Maine DEP has not mandated a reduction in water withdrawals, but the discrepancy between community concerns and the company's statements highlights a potential gap in public trust and transparency regarding water management practices.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We withdraw only an amount of water that a particular spring can sustainably support,” — Poland Spring/Primo Brands
- “There was real frustration that I heard from people about what Poland Spring is doing, and especially during a drought,” — Paul Blest, Producer for More Perfect Union
This situation underscores the complexities of water management in drought conditions and the balancing act between corporate practices and community concerns.
