Myth: Groundwater is inexhaustible.
Use can exceed supply, drying up streams and wells.
Myth: Groundwater always flows from north to south.
Depending on location, groundwater can flow in any direction.
Myth: Groundwater flows in underground caverns and rivers.
Although some groundwater can move through caves in areas with karst geology, such as Kentucky, most of our groundwater moves through tiny spaces and pores between soil and rock particles.
Myth: Groundwater is always pure because the soil filters out all impurities.
Harmful bacteria in water can be filtered out by soil, but many chemical pollutants are not and will remain in the water that comes out of the well.
Myth: If water tastes good, looks clear or doesn’t smell ‘funny’, it is safe to drink.
You can’t judge groundwater by its taste or smell alone! Human taste response to chemicals is limited and many chemicals have no odor or taste to humans at all. That being said, any sudden change in flavor or odor of your well water should be investigated to find the cause.
Myth: Pouring a small amount of waste on the ground won’t cause a problem.
Even small amounts of hazardous substances that are disposed of improperly can cause groundwater pollution. And if many people take the view that a ‘small amount won’t hurt’, that will soon turn into a large problem in just a few years. Dispose of your waste properly with a waste disposal company and protect your drinking water!
