# Baltimore blends Susquehanna River water to combat drought

> Baltimore mixes Susquehanna River water with reservoirs to fight drought as supplies drop
- Title: Baltimore blends Susquehanna River water to combat drought
- Summary: Baltimore mixes Susquehanna River water with reservoirs to fight drought as supplies drop Baltimore will blend Susquehanna River water with reservoirs…
- Keywords: baltimore, susquehanna river, loch raven reservoir, liberty reservoir, prettyboy reservoir, drought, water supply, maryland, news, local, blends, Susquehanna
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/community/climate-environment/water-drought-susquehanna-river-reservoirs-HCOGYYBRHFAD5ERWW6KYRB2IUY
- Author: Darreonna Davis
- Published: 2026-09-22T12:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: baltimore, susquehanna river, loch raven reservoir, liberty reservoir, prettyboy reservoir, drought, water supply, maryland, news, local
## Drought hits Baltimore reservoirs
By mid-August, Loch Raven Reservoir water levels dropped enough to turn an island into a peninsula at the popular beach off Loch Raven Drive.

> River water, by nature, carries higher sediment and organic material compared to water from reservoirs
## Baltimore mixes river water with reservoirs
Starting late September or early October, water from the Susquehanna River will blend with Liberty, Loch Raven, and Prettyboy reservoirs to supply residents.
## Drought conditions worsen
88.3% of Maryland, including Baltimore City and Baltimore County, is abnormally dry according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
## Water quality concerns
DPW says river water carries more sediment and organic material but blending should cause minimal taste, smell, or appearance changes.

> River water, by nature, carries higher sediment and organic material compared to water from reservoirs
## Water conservation tips
Residents urged to avoid watering lawns, wash cars, take shorter showers, fix leaks, and run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
## Key takeaway

Baltimore will blend Susquehanna River water with reservoirs starting late September to address drought