Five Potential Groundwater Polluting Sources
Globally, groundwater accounts for around 30% of freshwater supplies. Monitoring groundwater pollution can be crucial as nearly 99% of rural residents use it every day. Groundwater is essential for both homeowners and businesses. It is used for irrigation, household and business operations, as well as manufacturing. Groundwater resources across the USA have come under attack from a variety of sources.
Groundwater is safer than many surface water sources. Groundwater can be polluted by contaminants that are leaked into it. This could lead to a problem with the entire supply. Although these types of pollution are often caused by human intervention, it is also possible for natural pollutants to occur. We’ll be looking at the harmful activities that can lead to groundwater contamination.
Understanding Groundwater
Groundwater is water that has traveled down to the surface and has collected in rocks or sediment. Because the water can’t penetrate further, it pools. Often, large bodies of water disperse slowly into aquifers, lakes, or aquifers. These water supplies can be used for large-scale irrigation and wells. Regular rain, snow, and other water sources like irrigation leaks or changes in river flow, replenish the supply.
Every time we have rain or snow, groundwater can be contaminated or at risk. The water supply can be contaminated by pollutant particles that seep in and pick up any liquids it comes in contact with. Groundwater is slow-moving, so contaminants can remain concentrated. This creates an ongoing plume that can travel through the supply.
Possible Polluting Sources
A Natural Source
Groundwater contamination doesn’t always happen because of human activity. There are substances in the soil such as fluoride and sulfates. Groundwater particles can also be contaminated by naturally occurring substances like decaying organic material. These materials should be regularly tested for in groundwater supplies.
Fertilizer
Frequent fertilizer use in agriculture can lead to significant amounts of pollution. Poor water quality can be caused by fertilizers and pesticides that are applied near water sources. Every rainstorm can carry chemicals in animal wastes, slurry, and fertilizers, as well as herbicides, insecticides, and other substances.
Water Pipe System
Groundwater can be polluted by waste from sewers and local pipes. Poorly constructed pipes can lead to bacteria and viruses buildup. Groundwater contamination can be caused by pipes that carry oil or waste.
Natural Gas Drilling
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing from gas, is a method for drilling natural gas. This is a combination of chemicals and water that pushes the ground into the cracks. These items can be opened to allow for greater access to the gases. This drilling technique can allow methane to seep into the water.
Hazardous Waste
Paint and other hazardous waste can cause groundwater contamination if they are not properly disposed of. You could end up contaminating groundwater by dumping the wrong chemicals down the storm drain. Hazardous waste can cause problems for many people, including those containing medicines, disinfectants, or lawn and garden chemicals.
It may be worth considering installing a filter in your tap, or throughout your entire home, to protect your water supply. A quality filter for your home’s water supply can give you peace of mind. Most water filtration systems are capable of removing all these contaminants.
This post was written by a specialist at Onegreenfilter.com. One Green Filter is Tampa Bay’s top Water Softener, Purification & Filtration Expert. Our customers chose One Green FIlter because of our consistently high level of service and superior products we use to deliver pure, delicious water to their homes, businesses, and schools across the Tampa Bay area. To schedule a free appointment to test the quality of your water at your convenience contact us today.