Groundwater Awareness Week puts spotlight on Minnesota’s most precious resource

State officials in Minnesota are highlighting the importance of the responsible development, management, and use of groundwater in recognition of National Groundwater Awareness Week, which happens from March 5-11 this year.

Groundwater is a vital resource in Minnesota, with approximately 75% of Minnesotans relying on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, according to the Department of Natural Resources. In Cook County, there are many home and cabin owners who use a well as their primary source of drinking water. Some of the wells in Cook County have pristine water from the earth, while others have brackish or saline water. State and local officials encourage Cook County residents who have a well to get it tested on occasion. Click here for local resources on testing water that comes from a well in Cook County.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) works closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other agencies to protect Minnesota’s groundwater that is used for drinking.

Mark Malmanger is the northern region well management section supervisor for MDH. He spoke with WTIP’s Joe Friedrichs about groundwater quality in northeastern Minnesota and what considerations to be mindful of during National Groundwater Water Week. Audio below.

Joe Friedrichs March 9, 2023