The National Ground Water Assn. encourages every person to protect public health and the health of the environment by protecting groundwater, beginning on Protect Your Groundwater Day.
In the U.S., 39.4% of the population regularly depends on groundwater, and 38.5 million Americans rely on privately owned and operated household water wells for their drinking water supply. Another 87.1 million residents rely on groundwater-supplied community water systems.
For household water well owners, managing the well system and one’s property can make a difference in water quality. People who do not use household wells also can make a difference in groundwater quality—for instance, by how they store, use and dispose of hazardous household substances, or how well they maintain their septic systems.
Additionally, with drought gripping parts of the country, protecting groundwater through conservation is more important than ever.
Protect Your Groundwater Day is an occasion for every citizen to ACT — acknowledge the issue, consider how it applies to you, and then take action. Here are some action steps individuals can take.
Acknowledge the causes of preventable groundwater contamination
Everyone:
- There are hazardous substances common to households
- Most household water use occurs in a few areas around the home.
If you own a water well:
- Wellheads should be a safe distance from potential contamination
- Septic system malfunctions can pollute groundwater
- Poorly constructed or maintained wells can facilitate contamination
- Improperly abandoned wells can lead to groundwater contamination
Consider which apply to you
Everyone:
- What specific hazardous substances are in and around your home?
- Where do you and your family use the most water?
If you own a water well:
- Is your wellhead a safe distance from possible contamination?
- Is your well/septic system due for an inspection?
- Are there any abandoned wells on your property?
Take action to prevent groundwater contamination
Everyone:
- When it comes to water conservation:
- Modify your water use (more water-saving tips) and
- Install a water-saving device.
- When it comes to hazardous household substances:
- Store them properly in a secure place;
- Use them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations; and
- Dispose of them safely.
If you own a water well:
- Move possible contamination sources a safe distance from the wellhead;
- Get current on your septic system inspection and cleaning;
- Get an annual water well system inspection; and
- Properly decommission any abandoned wells using a professional.
Source: National Ground Water Assn.
