Protect Your Groundwater Day

Protect Your Groundwater Day was started by the National Ground Water Association to make groundwater protection a regular part of how every American citizen lives.
Today, NGWA urges you to ACT. Use this day to begin doing your part to protect one of our most important natural resources - groundwater.

1.  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.

2.  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?

3.  Take action to prevent groundwater contamination -

• Everyone
• When it comes to hazardous household substances:
• Store them properly in a secure place,
• Use them according to the manufacturer's recommendations,
• Dispose of them safely.
• When it comes to water conservation:
• Modify your water use,
• Install a water-saving device.
• 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 your annual water well system inspection.
• Properly decommission any abandoned wells using a professional.

[Information courtesy of the National Groundwater Association.]