Because water quality strongly impacts the health of you and your family, it is important to know the quality of the water used for domestic consumption. In the United States and elsewhere, drinking water can come from: a public supply system private sources from the household well In the United States, if water comes from… [Read More]
The Water Energy Nexus
We’ve all learned that turning off the light when we leave the room, switching off computer monitors when not in use, or using energy efficient appliances results in a corresponding reduction in energy consumption. Similarly, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or harvesting the rain water that falls on your roof will reduce… [Read More]
The Consequence of Global Warming: Coastal Flooding
Coastal flooding is rapidly emerging as one of the gravest consequences of global warming. The steady rise in global temperatures has triggered the melting of glacial and land ice, resulting in rising sea levels. The coastlines are the worst affected by this, and it may result in massive displacements in the coming years. Ironically, in… [Read More]
Trends in US Water Supply Demand
How much water does the United States of America consume on an annual basis? How has this changed over the last several decades? Which water source supplies the most water? Which sector demands the most water? The United States Geological Survey provides public data that helps us gain insight into consumption trends across the country…. [Read More]
Ground Water Recharge
Why Recharge? With an ever increasing demand for water, it’s only natural that water conservation measures would grow in importance. One such measure is ground water recharge, which replenishes aquifers. But instead of waiting for time and Mother Nature to absorb and filter surface water, artificial ground water recharge can be performed. This is done… [Read More]
Nitrates – Contamination, Impact, and Measures
What are Nitrates? Nitrates are chemical compounds containing nitrogen and oxygen. They’re found in a variety of natural and man-made sources. The latter significantly contributes to increased nitrate concentrations in ground water. Some of the major anthropogenic nitrate sources are sewage discharge, industrial effluents, and fertilizers. Nitrates are generally harmless, but consumption of high concentrations… [Read More]
Algae 101: What is it and what does it do?
Have you ever wondered what that green stuff is that you find floating in bodies of water? What about that slimy mass engulfing your aquarium? It’s algae. Yes – we are talking about algae. As icky as algae may seem, it serves a variety of useful purposes. What is it? Fossil records indicate that algae… [Read More]