Why Protect Groundwater?

This is a question that many people ask when I tell them what I do for a living.  Why protect groundwater?  It always amazes me that people don’t know or understand groundwater’s importance to both their lives and to their livelihood.  Of course as long as there are those who don’t know that may be job security for me.    

Right now as much of the country thirsts for water as is indicated on the National Drought Monitor, groundwater becomes even more vital.  I read in the local paper a couple of weeks ago a good representation as to why we need to protect groundwater.  I hope you agree.

So what are you doing to protect and conserve groundwater?  How can we make sure everyone knows not only why they need to protect groundwater, but also what they can do?

Not about how much you use

By Brian Reetz

This week I had the opportunity to get back on the road and travel to Western Nebraska. In my Growing Groundwater Awareness in Nebraska program, I am currently working with the community of Chappell. So while driving across the state, I was able to see and hear about different ways the drought is affecting the state. I could see it out of my hotel room window in North Platte, as a corn field had stunted growth in many different parts of the field. I was able to hear about it through talking with the Chappell Chamber as well as on many of the news stories that were aired on the radio.

As I returned home, I saw the way that my lawn looked. It’s no longer the green space that it was just a month ago. It is hanging in there but I know that it is the way that it will be.

We all need to do our part during this drought to make groundwater sustainable for future generations. It’s not always about how much water you use, but how to use it efficiently. Make sure that you are watering the proper amount for your lawn (it’s recommended to apply one and a half inches per week this time of the year, according to UNL Water) and water in the early morning (between 4-10 a.m.).

This way our lawns can continue to be a source of pride.