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Protecting Southwest Ohio’s Water: Research to Safeguard the Buried Valley Aquifer

December 5, 2024 – The Miami Conservancy District, in partnership with the Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA), is embarking on a groundbreaking research initiative to protect one of the region's most vital resources: the Buried Valley Aquifer. This aquifer system supplies drinking water to more than 1 million people and supports local businesses, agriculture, and recreational activities.

The $200,000 project, funded equally by an OWDA Research and Development Grant and Miami Conservancy District contributions, will assess the aquifer's vulnerability to increasing water withdrawals and the potential for water exports beyond our region.

“With water demand rising, it’s critical to understand how our aquifer could be impacted by increased withdrawals and interstate water transfers,” said Mike Ekberg, Manager of Water Data and Analysis, Miami Conservancy District. “This research will help us plan for the future and ensure a sustainable water supply for generations to come.”

Research Objectives and Impact

The study will provide data-driven insights and actionable strategies, including:

  • Evaluating Current Groundwater Levels: Understanding baseline conditions and trends.
  • Assessing Recharge and Usage Rates: Determining how quickly the aquifer replenishes and how much water is currently being used.
  • Modeling Potential Impacts: Predicting how increased withdrawals and exports could affect groundwater levels and streamflows.
  • Identifying Vulnerabilities: Mapping areas most at risk for over-extraction.
  • Developing Sustainable Management Strategies: Proposing best practices to protect the aquifer while supporting regional growth.

This project builds on decades of research conducted by Miami Conservancy District, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. By leveraging this knowledge and engaging with stakeholders, Miami Conservancy District aims to foster a collaborative approach to water management.

The Ohio Water Development Authority established a grant program for qualifying research and development programs for local governments, water and sewer districts, Conservancy districts, State Agencies, or institutions of higher learning that perform research and/or development.

On October 31, 2024, the Ohio Water Development Board approved the Miami Conservancy District’s $100,000 grant request for funding the project of Assessing Groundwater Vulnerability to Export in the Buried Valley Aquifer System.

“The Ohio Water Development Authority is excited for the opportunity to partner with the Miami Conservancy District to study current water capacity and develop a plan to help ensure safe drinking water remains in abundance and available to Ohioans,” said Mr. Michael Fraizer, OWDA Executive Director.  “Our Research and Development program is key to finding new and innovative ways to prevent water shortages and water quality issues,” continued Mr. Fraizer.

Since its development, the Research and Development program has awarded grants in areas of surface water, wastewater, drinking water, solid waste, agriculture, and public health.

A Call to Action for Regional Water Security

“Water is our region’s lifeblood,” Ekberg emphasized. “Through innovative research and partnerships, we’re ensuring that this vital resource remains secure, even as we face new challenges like climate change and population growth.”

The project is set to begin in 2025, will take several years, and will culminate in a comprehensive report. Miami Conservancy District invites the public to follow the study’s progress and participate in stakeholder workshops to learn more about protecting our aquifer.

About the Ohio Water Development Authority

The Ohio Water Development Authority provides financial support for the construction, maintenance, and operation of water-related projects throughout Ohio. Its mission is to ensure the state’s water resources are managed sustainably and effectively.

 

Posted on: Dec 18, 2024