Groundwater Awareness Week

Approximately 145 million Americans access their tap water from a groundwater source.

That’s A LOT of People, right?

Now imagine all the contaminants, such as chemical runoff from crops, and manufacturing plants that contaminate the groundwater. Groundwater is a primary source of water for most households…Our most abundant, yet endangered resource, WATER, needs our community to understand the importance and role that groundwater plays in the Ozarks.

Here are 10 ways you can protect and conserve groundwater:

1. Go Native:
   Use native plants in your landscape. They look great, and don’t need much water or fertilizer. Also choose grass varieties for your lawn that are adapted for your region’s climate, reducing the need for extensive watering or chemical applications.
2. Reduce Chemical Use:
   Use fewer chemicals around your home and yard, and make sure to dispose of them properly – don’t dump them on the ground!
3. Manage Waste:
   Properly dispose of potentially toxic substances like unused chemicals, pharmaceuticals, paint, motor oil, and other substances. Many communities hold household hazardous waste collections or sites – contact your local health department to find one near you.
4. Don’t Let It Run:
   Shut off the water when you brush your teeth or shaving, and don’t let it run while waiting for it to get cold. Keep a pitcher of cold water in the fridge instead.
5. Fix the Drip:
   Check all the faucets, fixtures, toilets, and taps in your home for leaks and fix them right away or install water conserving models.
6. Wash Smarter:
   Limit yourself to just a five-minute shower and challenge your family members to do the same! Also, make sure to only run full loads in the dish and clothes washer.
7. Water Wisely:
   Water the lawn and plants during the coolest parts of the day and only when they truly need it. Make sure you, your family, and your neighbors obey any watering restrictions during dry periods.
8. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle:
   Reduce the amount of “stuff” you use and reuse what you can. Recycle paper, plastic, cardboard, glass, aluminum and other materials.
9. Natural Alternatives:
   Use all natural/nontoxic household cleaners whenever possible. Materials such as lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar make great cleaning products, are inexpensive, and environmentally friendly.
10. Learn and Do More:
    Get involved in water education! Learn more about groundwater and share your knowledge with others.

Learn more at https://www.ngwa.org/what-is-groundwater/About-groundwater

Author

Carin Love

Internal Operations Manager

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