Water Use and Management

Aquifer

A layer of rock or soil that can hold and move water.

Recharge Rate

How fast water gets added back into an aquifer from rain or surface water.

Permeability

How easily water can flow through a material.

High Permeability

Materials that let water flow through quickly, like sand or gravel.

Medium Permeability

Materials that let water flow through at a moderate speed, like silt.

Low Permeability

Materials that block water flow a lot, like clay.

Ground Material Needed for Aquifer

Porous materials like sand and gravel that can hold a lot of water.

Ground Materials for Filtering Pollutants

Materials like sand and activated carbon that help clean water as it moves into an aquifer.

How can an aquifer 'run out' of water?

When water is used up faster than it can be replaced, often from too much pumping or dry weather.

Ecosystem Effects of Low Aquifer Levels

Less water can harm habitats and reduce plant and animal populations.

Social Effects of Low Aquifer Levels

People may face water shortages, disputes over water, and less farming success.

Economic Effects of Low Aquifer Levels

Less water can make it more expensive to access, reduce farming output, and lead to job losses.

Why a Farmer Might Drill a Well Near Irrigation

To access groundwater for watering crops, ensuring they have enough water, especially during dry times.

Methods of Disinfection in Water Treatment

Ways to clean water, like adding chlorine or using UV light.

Problems from Old Water Pipes

Issues can include leaks, dirt in the water, low pressure, and expensive repairs.

Man-Made Pollutants Impacting Water

Chemicals from farms, sewage, and factories that can dirty water sources.