Groundwater

Groundwater is the water that seeps through the ground after a rain or snow that settles to a level called the water table. Below the water table, groundwater fills the spaces between the soil particles and within the cracks of the bedrock. These layers of soil, rock, and water are called aquifers. There are approximately 17,000 water wells in Gaston County, providing drinking water to private residences. Also there are over 200 public wells in the county that provide water to rural subdivisions, mobile home parks, schools, and churches.

There are 25,000 Gaston County residents that rely on public community water systems; and, groundwater contamination of private wells creates an economic and personal hardship to those affected areas. They may also have a lasting environmental impact. Groundwater contamination serving public community wells is even more devastating due to the large number of people affected, and activities in calculated areas around wells potentially can spill or leak hazardous substances which move into the ground water. The impact caused by the the contamination in the drinking water for persons using that well. Wellhead protection areas allows the County to more effectively target education programs on groundwater contamination and health risks for industries, businesses and well users. Wellhead protection areas are scientifically delineated areas around a well where land use activities can directly impact the quality of drinking water in the well. The Protection Program for Public Community Wells provides for the adoption of an official wellhead protection map which delineates the sensitive regions around each public community well in Gaston County. The official Wellhead Protection Map for public community wells would allow for consistent risk analysis and education to protect ground water and reduce public health risks associated with groundwater contamination in public community wells. The official Wellhead Protection Map for Public Community Wells will be adopted County Board of Commissioners.

Groundwater pollutants are a very serious problem that many people don't even think about. They contaminate the water you drink, bathing, and even use to wash with. To understand more about ground water contaminates check out the site below.

Groundwater Guardian is an organization that believes very strongly on the issue of clean groundwater. Gaston County has been a Groundwater Guardian county since 1996. Check out this site to get learn more about The Groundwater Guardian.

Septic tanks have been a real problem with groundwater pollutants. If a septic tank is not properly constructed or is damaged upon installation, there can be major problems. The waste can seep into the ground, contaminating the water. This is why it's also a good idea to make sure your well is completely sealed.
Not only can it contaminate the water in the ground, but it can also contaminate your well. To prevent this from happening check the sites listed below.

Top 10 Ways to Protect Ground Water

1. Dispose of chemicals properly.
2. Take used oil to a recycling center.
3. Use fertilizers according to directions and limit use where possible.
4. Take shorter showers.
5. Shut water off when brushing teeth.
6. Run full loads of dishes and laundry.
7. Check for leaky faucets and toilets and make needed repairs.
8. Plant native plants and water outside only when necessary.
9. Keep a pitcher of drinking water in refrigerator.
10. Be involved in water education.

Hazardous chemicals can cause contamination in wells!