GROUNDWATER AWARENESS WEEK
Groundwater Awareness Week during the first full week in March provides essential information regarding the primary source of clean water around the world. The observance raises awareness of the importance of preserving and protecting groundwater resources for drinking, bathing, recreation, agriculture, medical uses, and much more.
Groundwater is located below the Earth’s surface, between rock and soil.
Groundwater Facts:
- 71% of the Earth is water, but only 1% is useable.
- Of the useable water on Earth, 99% of it is groundwater.
- According to the American Water Works Association, 26% of household water use is for toilet flushing.
- Ogallala, the largest U.S. aquifer, stretches 250,000 square miles and encompasses eight states from South Dakota to Texas.
- According to the CDC, approximately 145 million Americans access their tap water from a groundwater source.
- An estimated 43 million Americans get their water from groundwater wells.
Protecting groundwater is a growing concern. As the population grows, the demand for clean water increases. While naturally occurring chemicals and bacteria exist in groundwater, humans are more likely to contaminate groundwater sources.
HOW TO OBSERVE #GroundwaterAwarenessWeek
Learn how to preserve groundwater and prevent it from becoming contaminated. Follow these tips:
- Conserve Water
- Don’t let the faucet run when brushing teeth or washing dishes.
- Reduce shower times to 5 minutes.
- Wash full loads of laundry.
- Water the lawn during the coolest parts of the day.
- Fix leaky faucets and toilets.
- Protect Water
- Landscape with native plants. Native plants thrive in their natural environment and require less watering. The roots act as natural filters and prevent soil erosion.
- You’ll also use fewer chemicals. Reduce your need for chemicals and dispose of them appropriately. Contact your local waste management for appropriate disposal.
- Use natural cleaners whenever possible. Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice do a fantastic job of cleaning all surfaces of a home safely.
Learn more about groundwater and how it affects you. Use #GroundwaterAwarenessWeek to share on social media.
NATIONAL GROUNDWATER AWARENESS WEEK HISTORY
The National Groundwater Association sponsors National Groundwater Awareness Week and promotes the week with educational resources and information to inspire the next generation to protect groundwater for ages to come.
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