Today marks the annual celebration of Protection Your Groundwater Day, a time where water professionals in Marion County and around the country encourage communities to promote and protect their groundwater supply.
You may have seen the statistic that only 1% of water on earth is usable. But what’s the breakdown of surface water and groundwater in this statistic? Almost all of this 1% is groundwater! (99% of it to be exact).
In Marion County, IN our drinking water comes from groundwater (and also surface water). Today is a great time to take a small step toward protecting this valuable resource and learning more about where your drinking water comes from.
Do I live in a drinking water protection area?
Look for these road signs around the county. They indicate you are in an area where water wells pull water from the ground and sends it to the water utility. You can check if your home or business is in a drinking water protection area in Marion County using our interactive map. Even if you are not in a drinking water protection area, what you do can impact others around you and your local ecosystem.
What can I do to prevent groundwater pollution?
Everyone should consider possible sources of groundwater contamination in daily life. Improper waste disposal, chemical spills, and over application of fertilizer are just a few examples. Keeping hazardous substances in their appropriate containers is many times greater than the cost and hassle of cleaning up improper disposal.
If you own a private well, understand that septic system malfunctions or poorly maintained wells can contribute to groundwater pollution. Now is a great time to schedule a test for your private water system. WellOwner.org has many great resources including the Find a Contractor tool which allows you to find certified water professionals in your area.
If you are a business in a Marion County drinking water protection area, free consultations and resources through our business assistance program are available to help you prevent groundwater contamination and comply with local regulations.
All citizens can take steps by storing chemicals properly and using them according to manufacturers recommendations. Free hazardous waste and electronic waste drop off sites are available to residents of Marion County through various programs including the City of Indianapolis ToxDrop.
Let’s act today to protect groundwater – our 0.99%!
