PORTLAND, Maine — Many water utilities are raising rates because water use is down. That's partly because manufacturers have closed or are cutting back, tourism has fallen and the real estate market is in the doldrums.

The water utility serving Kennebunk, Maine, says water usage fell 11 percent last year to 1995 levels. Superintendent Norm Labbe of the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport & Wells Water District says the top reason is the sour economy.

A recent study shows home foreclosures, high unemployment and slower business have brought reduced water demand to many areas.