Climate change is projected to exacerbate the water challenges that the Mid-Coast region already experiences. When it comes to drinking water, climate change may add stress to drinking water systems by affecting the amount of water that is available (the water supply) and the amount of water that is used (the water demand), particularly during times of year when water use is typically highest. 

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Mid-Coast Water Providers
Community water systems typically develop estimates of current water use and projected future demands as a part of their water planning efforts. These estimates may be contained in Water Management Conservation Plans, Water System Master Plans, or similar planning documents. Smaller non-municipal water systems (e.g., smaller water districts) may not maintain estimates of current water use or future demand projections.

The Water Action Plan identifies a need to develop an updated defensible projected future demand for community water systems in the region, along with an assessment of their ability to meet those demands with current sources . The assessment should account for the potential for reductions in water supply and increases in water demand resulting from climate change impacts. Understanding projected future supplies, demands, and deficits will help community water systems assess and select actions to meet water needs for their individual service areas and the region as a whole.