Tennessee has been blessed with an abundance of high quality ground water as primary source of their water needs. With localized exceptions, Tennessee's ground water is of good quality as is evidenced by the number of public water systems utilizing ground water in Tennessee and the dozen or more bottled water facilities. History wise, there have been a limited number of contamination incidences of public water systems across the state.
All public water systems are subject to strict testing and treatment requirements before distribution. Overall, public water systems in the state have an excellent record of providing clean water to every home. The Division of Water Supply is the one responsible for regulating all public water systems to protect the state's drinking water quality. There has been no source of water used by public water systems that was found to contain lead, copper, arsenic, radon or uranium in quantities of concern. It is once thought to be immune from contamination, but there is increasing awareness that ground water needs to be protected as a valuable resource.
More than half of Tennessee population relies on the groundwater as primary source of drinking water. The community public water systems withdraw approximately 243 million of gallons per day. With this being said, Tennessee cannot afford to have contaminated ground water. That is why all homes and businesses in Tennessee are encouraged to preserve the natural resources. The Division of Water Supply has provided awareness to every home on how to help prevent future contamination of groundwater and preserve the natural resources. The contamination of groundwater may occur due to following reasons.
1. Sanitary Sewage
2. Oil, anti freeze, solvents, fuel, paints, metal residue used in households and vehicle service
3. Dirty wash water, detergent, laundry pre-wash solvents
4. Solvents, paints varnishes used in painting
5. Process chemicals, ink from photo shops
6. Food scraps and juices used by food processor
Shallow wells and springs located near can be affected by surface water contaminated with bacteria. Failing septic tanks or leaking directly to groundwater can also cause contamination. Usually, groundwater will not affect surface water but this could also be possible.
Dumping of garbage, chemicals and the likes is not a great idea. Contaminated surface water can seep into groundwater causing the contamination of natural resources. Abandoned wells can also cause hazardous contamination. Wells have direct connection with groundwater. There are thousands of abandoned wells in Tennessee. Proper handling of these can help prevent contamination of groundwater. Irresponsible use of herbicides and pesticides not only in agricultural lands but also by homeowners is the primary cause of groundwater contamination.
Good groundwater is one of the state's great natural resources. That is because of its good geological location. The good quality of the groundwater is something that every home of Tennessee should take care of. Preventing contamination before it happens is the best solution. Ground water contamination can have such serious consequences. This includes health problem and possible loss of our natural resources. A lot of countries are seeking for good groundwater sources. Tennessee already has one, the residents just need to keep it.
Samson Paulotti distributes information on water and sewer damage issues for
Tennessee Restoration and
The Restoration Resource Tennessee
