The western part of Alachua County sits atop the Floridan Aquiter, the major source of water for the region. There are places where the water level is so close to the surface the drinking water is visible in lime mining pits and natural sinkholes.
Geologically, most of the area consists of karst covered by sandy, porous soil. Because there is no solid layer of material to protect the water, whatever is put on the surface quickly makes its way down into the water supply.
Almost all rural residents have private wells to pull the water they need. When a mother turns on the kitchen faucet, all the chemicals that have been put on the surface are in that glass of water she hands to her child. EPA Water Safety Report
Once contaminated, it will be almost impossible to clean the aquifer.
By Ellie Schwab
Door