Why should I care about a wellfield?
For many years we believed that our groundwater was protected from contamination by being underground. We now know that substances on the surface can seep down and contaminate our drinking water supply. As Central Indiana grows the only source of additional water will be the groundwater resources.
How does this affect me in the fuel and convenience store business?
- Changes to Indianapolis zoning codes and Marion County health ordinances will likely affect your business operations by mandating certain Best Management Practices (BMPs) that were previously voluntary.
- If you are careful to contain your contaminants, you will avoid polluting your site, or environs and avoid a potentially expensive clean-up down the road.
- Being a good neighbor in your wellfield is good for your business – it will be appreciated by your customers.
What are potential contaminants?
In the fuel and convenience store industry, leaking fuel oil and gasoline tanks are an obvious hazard. But don’t forget retail products such as windshield washer fluid, cleaners and chemicals that could spill on the ground around your station.
What can I do at my station to help protect groundwater?
- If not already done, upgrade your fuel storage tanks to meet federal and state requirements.
- Do not allow disposal of vehicle fluids (oil, antifreeze, etc.) in the station/store dumpsters (i.e. Post “No Dumping” signs).
- Display all retail vehicle fluid products inside the building or along the outside of the building. If possible, put containment pans underneath these displays to retain any spills from broken containers.
Education and Training
There are many resources and face-to-face help to assist you in being compliant. Here’s what you can do:
- Review our resource page for helpful videos, websites, and signs for your business.
- Contact us for a business assessment or help on developing your spill plan.
