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Protecting groundwater protects public health, the environment

Protect Your Groundwater Day, Sept. 11

September 10, 2012

RCAC encourages the public to protect public health and the health of the environment by protecting groundwater beginning on Protect Your Groundwater Day, Sept. 11.

In the United States, 88 million Americans rely on groundwater-supplied community water systems, while another 42 million Americans rely on individual household water wells.

For household water well owners, how they manage their well systems and property can make a difference in their 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 our nation, protecting groundwater through conservation is more important than ever. From the Southwest to the Southeast and the Great Plains to the Midwest, drought has put a strain on many household water wells—sometimes resulting in a reduction or loss of water flow as the water table drops. Abnormally dry or drought conditions are even affecting Alaska, Hawaii and parts of New England.

Protect Your Groundwater Day is an occasion for every citizen to ACT: Acknowledge the issue, Consider how it applies to you, then take Action. For steps individuals can take, visit the National Ground Water Association website >>

RCAC is the Western Rural Community Assistance Partnership.

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