Clean water is essential for public health and the environment. Groundwater is a vital source of freshwater, underlying nearly all land areas and supplying drinking water for billions of people worldwide.
However, groundwater is threatened by a growing risk of contamination from human activities at the Earth’s surface.
As populations increase and land use intensifies, pollution of subsurface water sources has become a serious concern. Once contaminated, groundwater can be extremely difficult and costly to remediate. It is crucial that proactive measures be taken to protect this invaluable natural resource.
This article will explore the major causes of groundwater contamination and discuss some effective strategies for combating the problem.
Table of Contents
What Is Groundwater Contamination?
A large portion of the United States population, over 50%, relies on groundwater for their drinking water needs. Groundwater also serves as one of the primary sources of irrigation water in the country. However, groundwater is susceptible to pollution if contaminants enter the supply.
Groundwater contamination occurs when man-made compounds infiltrate underground aquifers, rendering the water unsafe for human use. Products like gasoline, oil, road salts, and chemicals have the ability to pollute groundwater as they seep into the soil over time.
Runoff from agricultural fields, such as pesticides and fertilizers, can additionally compromise water quality below the surface.
Other contaminants posing risks include road salt, industrial waste from mining or drilling sites, and motor vehicle fluids.
Underground storage tanks and landfills have the potential to leak pollutants that contaminate nearby groundwater as well if not properly maintained. Even waste from septic systems risks contamination if it is not treated before absorption into the earth.
Many contaminants originating on the land are able to permeate through layers of soil and rock until reaching aquifers. Once pollution enters groundwater, it can be difficult and costly to remediate.
Proper handling and disposal of substances like agricultural and road chemicals, industrial waste, and hazardous household products is necessary to protect this important source of freshwater.
Groundwater Contamination Health Risks
Groundwater can naturally contain microorganisms and harmful chemicals from the surrounding environment.
For example, arsenic and radon may be found in groundwater in some areas. However, human activities are often the cause of groundwater contamination. Things like improper fertilizer and pesticide use, poorly located or maintained septic systems, improper waste disposal, mining, construction work, and chemical spills at work sites can all contaminate groundwater supplies.
When groundwater supplies become contaminated, it can lead to disease outbreaks. Past outbreaks have been caused either by untreated groundwater or issues with water treatment systems.
Some of the most common microorganisms linked to groundwater outbreaks include Shigella, hepatitis A, norovirus, Giardia, Campylobacter, and Salmonella.
Other microbes that have caused outbreaks from groundwater include Cryptosporidium (a parasite), E. coli (a bacterium), and various viruses.
Injurious chemicals and microorganisms found in groundwater can lead to neurological illnesses, reproductive problems, and diarrhea. Immune system-impaired individuals, the elderly, expectant mothers, newborns, and small children may be especially vulnerable to illness from certain microorganisms and toxins.
Rising health issues have led to increased litigation in some cases. One example is the situation at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
According to TorHoerman Law, from around 1953 to 1987, the water supply serving Camp Lejeune residents and personnel was found to be contaminated with toxic chemicals. These chemicals were linked to serious illnesses in many exposed individuals for decades.
Those harmed by the Camp Lejeune water crisis have advocated for justice. Recently, in 2022, the U.S. government passed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act to provide a pathway to compensation.
This new law acknowledges the suffering of victims and allows them to pursue damages resulting from exposure during their time at the base.
After many years of fighting for recognition, those impacted now have an opportunity to seek a remedy through the legal system.
The Camp Lejeune compensation offered under this new law can help address mounting medical costs and lost wages for those dealing with conditions.
What to Do to Reduce Groundwater Contamination
Pollution prevention is key to protecting groundwater, as contamination can last for years and be costly to remediate. There are various actions we can all take to help.
At Home
It is important to properly dispose of all waste and avoid dumping chemicals down drains or on the ground. Underground fuel oil tanks should be tested for leaks and replaced with above-ground tanks if feasible. All fuels and chemicals need to be kept in safe premises.
Chemical use should be reduced as much as possible, and handling instructions should always be followed carefully. Septic systems need pumping and inspection every five years to maintain proper functioning.
Wells and the surrounding area should be examined, with well water testing conducted as warranted based on potential pollution risks. Proper environmental stewardship practices like these help ensure safety and minimize impacts on local water sources.
At Work
All waste needs to be disposed of properly and wastewater discharge connections must be verified as correct. Consider eliminating unnecessary floor drains and ensure on-site septic systems are well-maintained and used appropriately. Waste dumpsters should be covered when not in use.
Chemicals and fuels require safe storage, handling, and use. Underground tanks holding these materials should be monitored and replaced above-ground if possible. Storage and loading areas need containment measures. Use of chemicals ought to be reduced or substituted when feasible.
Chemicals and waste should be isolated and protected from rain and moisture. Separate drains from storage and loading locations. Use deicing salt and pesticides conservatively.
Conduct an environmental self-audit to identify compliance issues and opportunities for improvement. Develop a formal pollution prevention plan with defined roles and responsibilities.
Designate personnel to conduct regular inspections, paying special attention to high-risk zones. Prepare an emergency response procedure in the event of spills or other incidents.
In Town
It is important that land use planning and governing regulations adequately safeguard crucial water resources. Legislation and initiatives aimed at protecting groundwater sources deserve support.
Educating both residents and local companies about aquifers and groundwater is key to fostering stewardship.
Consider how activities may impact aquifers and recharge areas when securing open community spaces. Monitoring key well fields and their recharge zones can help identify issues early.
Providing responsible disposal options for household hazardous wastes removes them from the local environment. Leading by example, town facilities should implement solid prevention practices.
Final Thought
Groundwater contamination poses serious risks to public health and requires vigilant prevention efforts. Once pollution enters underground aquifers, it can spread widely and be extremely challenging to remediate.
By properly handling and disposing of hazardous chemicals and waste, maintaining septic systems, limiting outdoor pollutants, and supporting protective legislation, communities can safeguard this vital drinking water resource for future generations.
Small actions taken by individuals, businesses, and municipalities can collectively make a big difference in the fight against groundwater contamination.
Increased education and responsible land management practices are necessary to ensure access to clean groundwater well into the future.
