icon backReturn to Entries

Groundwater

Groundwater is the water located below the ground's surface. This reservoir of freshwater supports multiple domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors of society. Groundwater is a renewable resource if properly managed, but it can also be mined faster than it is replenished. Groundwater is susceptible to contamination from pollutants and saltwater intrusion. As the human population continues to grow and intensely develop the Earth, management of groundwater reserves is essential to the survival of the human species.

The cycle of groundwater replenishment includes snowfall and rainfall, and movement of some surface stream and lake water into or out of underground reservoirs. Groundwater removal occurs through the roots of plants, evaporation, and artesian springs. Here, the U.S. Department of Agriculture measures water levels among skunk cabbage.

None

Water found in ...

  • Loading...
locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles