Ground water is an important resource in our environment. It replenishes our streams, rivers, habitats and also provides fresh water for irrigation, industry, and communities. For many Americans, ground water is also the primary source of drinking water. However, ground water is highly susceptible to contamination from septic tanks, agricultural runoff, highway de-icing, landfills, and pipe leaks. EPA protects ground water supply from pollutants in a number of ways. The Agency sets and enforces water standards, offers guidance to private well users, regulates the storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes which may infiltrate groundwater systems and offers resources and expertise to facilitate the rehabilitation of contaminated ground water sources.
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