Having grown up and started my career as a professional horticulturist in Illinois, I have to say that the driest summer I've ever experienced in more than twenty years of living in Central New York barely compares to an average summer in the midwest. (Of course, I also walked to school five miles uphill both ways, barefoot in blinding blizzards when I was growing up, too)
Anyway, the National Drought Mitigation Center is absolutely dense with information and links to many other sites that address nationwide drought issues. It's a facsinating site to visit, but don't get too frustrated if information specific to Central New York is hard to find. Just make sure to visit my weather page every week and I'll help you figure out what to do in the event that an extended dry spell does strike upstate New York!
If the link above doesn't work, click the "back" button on your browser to return to this page. Then, if you would, click on the link below to send me an e-mail to let me know that the link now leads to a page that's no longer valid. I'll then do my best to track down the new address for the page and/or point you toward a different resource.
Terry L. Ettinger Horticulture Consulting Services takes no direct or implied responsibility for the information or recommendations found at any other website. Please keep in mind that all do-it-yourself activities involve a degree of risk. Skills, materials, tools, and site conditions vary widely. The reader remains responsible for the selection and use of tools, materials, and methods. Always obey local codes and laws, follow manufacturers’ operating instructions, and observe safety precautions at all times. Please read all labels carefully before purchasing, applying and storing any pesticide.