Tuesday, March 10, 2009

National Ground Water Awareness Week March 8-14, 2009

Just as periodic checks of furnaces and smoke detectors are recommended, so is an annual water well checkup. Spring is a good time to have this done before the peak water-use season begins. As part of its annual Ground Water Awareness Week promotion, NGWA stresses the importance of yearly water testing and well maintenance.

Not only do about 12 million households nationwide rely on private wells for their water supply, many community water systems rely on ground water in whole or part to meet water demands, and ground water supplies much of our nation’s water for agricultural irrigation. Ground water makes up about 95 percent of all available fresh water.

Everyone can easily become good stewards by protecting ground water through the proper storage, use, and disposal of hazardous household substances. These include common products such as gasoline and oil, paints and paint thinner, fertilizers, weed killers, pesticides, and cleaning products.

Why is it a good idea to have my water well checked annually?
  • An annual checkup by a water well driller, water treatment specialist or pump professional is the best way to ensure problem-free service and quality water.
  • Preventative maintenance usually is less costly than emergency maintenance.
  • Good well maintenance, like good car maintenance, can prolong the life of your well and related equipment.

At the very least have make sure your water has been tested for bacteriological quality within the last 12 months. For information on local testing options please contact Grays Harbor County Environmental Health at (360) 249-4413.