It is National Ground Water Awareness Week!
Here at the Portland Water Bureau we celebrate groundwater every day because we know just how lucky we are to have a reliable and efficient back-up, groundwater water supply system such as the system we maintain at the Columbia South Shore Well Field (CSSWF). Even though we rarely use our groundwater system, it is always there, ready and waiting to provide water in the event of an Bull Run watershed supply emergency or for summer supply augmentation.
(Read about the difference between a groundwater supply and a surface water supply system here)
It takes a lot of work to keep our groundwater system in tip top shape. Engineers operate the 27 supply wells at least once a year to make sure they are working properly and to test water quality. Water Quality staff collect and analyze samples frequently when the groundwater system is running to ensure the water meets or exceeds state and federal drinking water standards. Over 100 monitoring wells are routinely tested to provide additional groundwater quality data.
Portland also has a state certified groundwater protection program in place to ensure our groundwater stays clean and safe. Businesses that use, store or transport hazardous chemicals are required to meet regulations that prevent spills into the ground.
The Water Bureau hosts several events throughout the year to educate businesses and the public about the importance of groundwater and how to protect it. What can you do this week to celebrate and protect groundwater?
Rebecca Geisen
Water Resources Program Manager
Portland Water Bureau
