Groundwater Stewardship Workgroup: Protecting What’s Beneath Us Between Us
About the Workgroup
We are excited to announce the formation of the Groundwater Stewardship Workgroup and are now seeking members from the community to join and help protect vital groundwater resources that sustain rural ways of life.
This volunteer-based workgroup will advise on:
✅ Outreach activities
✅ Co-develop public resources
✅ Help shape advocacy efforts that support clean, sustainable groundwater in the region.
We are looking for individuals who:
Care about clean water, sustainability and community health.
Bring lived experience, professional expertise, or knowledge in groundwater and septic issues.
Are willing to volunteer a few hours each month to support this initiative.
We seek a diverse membership representing various community sectors including local schools, civic groups, county departments, agriculture and skilled professionals. Specific areas of expertise and skillets we welcome include:
Groundwater skilled professionals (hydrologist, hydrogeology, environmental engineers, water quality specialists/technicians)
Copywriting/Editing
Photography
Graphic Design
Sponsorships & Fundraising
Event Planning
Sustainability Management
Agricultural Practices
Up to 60% of surface water in lakes, rivers and wetlands originates from groundwater.
Background
Groundwater is an invisible foundation to our health, environment and economy — yet its decline often goes unnoticed until it is too late. Our recent survey of over 300 residents revealed both high interest and significant gaps in groundwater stewardship.
Testing Gaps - While most households have tested their water at least once, fewer than 20% conduct recommended annual tests, often due to cost, uncertainty or lack of accessible guidance.
Information Gaps - Nearly 30% rely on neighbors or online searches for well and septic maintenance information, highlighting the need for trusted, science-based resources.
Meanwhile, climate stressors continue to threaten our unconfined aquifer. Last year alone, Central Maryland experienced nearly 300 days of drought. Spring rains were welcomed but provide delayed relief; it takes months for rainfall to recharge groundwater systems. Water from torrential downpours is often lost to runoff or evaporation from from impermeable surfaces.
How To Participate
Interested in joining or want to know more? Attend one of our upcoming Workgroup Info Sessions to learn about goals, expectations and how you can get involved.
Lunch Session - Tues, 22 July @ Noon - Register
Evening Session - Thurs, 24 July @ 7 PM - Register
Please contact the Groundwater Program Coordinator, Abby Mann at abby@mocoalliance.org with questions.