Aquifers and Groundwater: What You Need to Know
Groundwater – the water found beneath the Earth’s surface in soil and rock – is one of our most vital natural resources. In the United States, groundwater supplies about 37% of the water used by public water systems and over 90% of rural home water supply. For water and drilling professionals like hydrogeologists, contractors, and planners, understanding aquifers and groundwater is crucial for managing wells and water systems. This blog post explores what aquifers are, the types of aquifers, how groundwater is stored and moves, regional examples of groundwater abundance and quality, the importance of recharge areas and sustainable management, and tips for well owners and professionals to understand their local aquifers. What Is an Aquifer? An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable material (such as sand, gravel, or fractured rock) that holds water and allows it to flow. In simple terms, an aquifer is like a giant sponge beneath the ground – water fills th...