Protect Your Groundwater Day, September 14

There seems to be a day for everything. And according to the National Ground Water Association (NGWA), September 14th is Protect Your Groundwater Day.

“Every person can do something to protect groundwater in their local area—from not polluting it to using water wisely,” said Cliff Treyens, NGWA Public Awareness Director. “We each have a personal responsibility to protect groundwater. The good news is that for most people all it takes is a small adjustment in their daily habits.”

On Protect Your Groundwater Day, NGWA urges you to ACT.

ACT —acknowledge, consider, take action.

Use this day to begin doing your part for protecting one of our most important natural resources — groundwater!

1. Acknowledge the causes of preventable groundwater contamination and water waste. Remember, any chemicals used in your yard have the potential to wash into storm drains and pollute local waterways —

• There are hazardous substances common to households
• Most household water use occurs in a few areas around the home.

2. Consider which apply to you —

• What specific hazardous substances are in and around your home?
• Where do you and your family use the most water?

3. Take action to prevent groundwater contamination —

When it comes to hazardous household substances:

• Store them properly in a secure place
• Use them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• Dispose of them safely.

When it comes to water conservation:

• Modify your water use (more water saving tips)
• Install a water-saving device.

For more information about Protect Your Groundwater Day, visit the NGWA website