1/4 Of France's Departments Now Subject To Water Rationing - Reuters

PARIS - France extended water rationing on Wednesday, with about a quarter of the country now subject to curbs amid fears of another summer drought, the environment ministry said.

Despite relatively heavy spring rainfall, the water table remains low, particularly in parts of west and southwest France. Limits on water use are also in force to the east and north of Paris, part of the country's main wheat belt. "We must be rigorous in managing our water resources and be as economical as possible in order to make best use of the reserves still available," Environment Minister Nelly Olin said.

Curbs, including hosepipe bans, were now in force in 22 of mainland France's 96 departments, the ministry said.

"A risk of drought or damage to our lakes and rivers cannot be excluded if there's a prolonged lack of rain in the coming weeks as undergound water levels remain low," it said. Southwest departments affected by a lack of rain included some major growing areas for maize, which needs more water than other grains and is often irrigated.

EDIT

http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/36948/story.htm