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.

Hot, Hot, Hot

by Jennifer Wemhoff, Program Manager

It's hot.  The forecast calls for 103 in Lincoln, and we're in a heat advisory due to heat indices near 110.  I feel sorry for the guys shingling my neighbor's roof today.

However, the heat wave here is nothing compared to the heat and low humidity helping to fuel the wildfires in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.  There are at least 19 wildfires burning in the western U.S. today, with little relief in sight, and little containment of the raging flames.  

Conversely, parts of Florida are swimming in more than 20 inches of rain dropped by Tropical Storm Debby, resulting in flooding, high winds, and even tornadoes.

Disparity like this makes me think about the "haves" and "have nots" in terms of water supply.  They need the water to fight the fires in the west; they have more than they want or need in the southeast.  Parts of the world have an abundant, clean supply of water at their fingertips.  I'm fortunate enough to live in a place where I can turn on the tap and safe, drinkable water comes out.  Other parts don't have the water availability and/or infrastructure for this luxury.

I know I can't put out the fires or bring the necessary infrastructure to those that need it simply by conserving water, but I know my efforts certainly can't hurt.  As we enter the hot, dry summer months, we should all be cognizant of our water supplies, and be responsible in its use.  Even if water conservation isn't mandated or even encouraged, it's still a good idea to shut off the tap when you brush your teeth, check faucets and fixtures for leaks and have them repaired, skip watering our lawns or just water our lawns in the morning or evening rather than the middle of the day, reusing rainwater to irrigate plants, and being proactive in water conservation.

Get more water conservation tips here and here and here.

What are you doing in your homes this summer to help conserve water?  

Welcome Summer!

Summertime in my home is synonymous with backyard bar-b-ques!

Relax on the patio, heat up the grill, throw on some sweet corn and burgers, and invite over some friends. What can be better? At my house, a nice cool beverage, beer being the popular choice, also accompanies the feast!

Have you ever thought about your favorite beer and the water used to create it? Water is used in brewing beer and also plays a role in the unique taste of the local brew. I recently came across this article which explains more about this essential beer ingredient, water!

The next time I crack open a cool one, I’ll think about the importance of keeping our water resources clean and plentiful.

Let’s keep it clean!

Cheers to that!

Some other bar-b-que fun facts:

It takes 4,000+ gallons of water to produce a hamburger.
It takes over 100 gallons of water to grow an ear of corn.

Find out how much water it takes to produce one egg, an orange and other products here.