By PAULA TRACY, InDepthNH.org

NEW LONDON - With drought conditions lingering across southern New Hampshire, growers are assessing their fields and expressing optimism for solid yields this season. Hydrologists however caution that replenishing groundwater reserves will take considerable time, above all in coastal and southern districts where private wells and farm stands are plentiful.

Strawberry harvests lead the way.

Bruce Putnam of Spring Ledge Farm in New London noted preparations for a pick-your-own strawberry season. He observed that last year's dry spell had hampered new plantings and fruit development for the current crop. Although irrigation helped, sustaining adequate moisture proved difficult during the prolonged dry period. Nevertheless a promising berry crop awaits pickers, he indicated on Monday. PYO operations should begin around next week, while the farm stand already offers freshly picked fruit.

Cameron Barker, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, reported that early June data show severe drought persisting in southeast New Hampshire, encompassing Manchester and the Seacoast. Moderate drought affects western areas including Keene and Lebanon, while northern regions remain free of drought concerns.

Sarah Jamison, service hydrologist for the National Weather Service, stated on Tuesday that recovery still lies ahead. Above-normal rainfall over the past six weeks has arrived at an ideal moment for agriculture, yet groundwater deficits in farming zones may need more than one summer to resolve.

A wet weather pattern has taken hold, and continued favorable conditions should yield progress, she added. The state requires roughly an inch of rain weekly merely to hold drought levels steady and additional amounts to improve them.

Certain parts of New Hampshire enjoy ample surface and groundwater supplies. Last week's storm delivered nearly 10 inches of rain to Madison in May, almost twice the typical total.

Flooding and drought can coexist, Jamison pointed out.

Although weekend rains and emerging foliage may suggest the drought has ended, she explained that leaf-out increases overall water demand significantly.

Winter conditions left groundwater little improved from the previous autumn despite heavy snow, because thaw and rainfall remained limited.

Farm stands statewide are stocking pint and quart containers of strawberries, the sole fruit that displays seeds externally. This crop ranks among the state's most valuable agricultural products alongside corn.

Some operations invite visitors to pick their own berries while others harvest at dawn to supply afternoon sales from mid-June into early July.

Moulton Farm in Meredith began offering fresh-picked strawberries on Monday, with additional fruit ripening over coming weeks.

Longview Farm in Plymouth anticipates opening later this week after a cool May delayed ripening.

Butternut Farm in Farmington cultivates two-and-a-half acres and anticipates strong picking conditions throughout the day once fields open.

Apple Hill Farm in Concord provides both pick-your-own and pre-picked options starting this week, noting recent rain has enhanced sweetness and juiciness.

Beans and Greens Farm in Gilford will host a Strawberry Festival on June 27 and 28.

Additional sources include Brookdale Farm and Lull Farm in Hollis, Edgewater Farm in Plainfield, Applecrest Farm in Hampton, and Spring Ledge Farm in New London near Pleasant Lake.

Strawberries supply vitamin C, roughly 55 calories per cup, plus fiber and potassium. They belong to the rose family, and June-bearing varieties predominate locally.

California and Florida account for 91 percent of the domestic crop and enjoy longer seasons. New Hampshire's window spans only about five weeks.