What is one of the main purposes of a groundwater protection plan?

One of the main purposes of a groundwater protection plan is to identify potential sources of contamination and implement strategies to protect groundwater quality. Groundwater is a vital resource for drinking water, agriculture, and industry, and its contamination can have serious public health implications as well as significant economic costs. By assessing potential risks to groundwater and creating strategies to mitigate them, these plans help ensure that groundwater remains clean and safe for use.

This kind of proactive management is essential for preventing pollutants—from pesticides to industrial discharges—from entering groundwater supplies. Implementing strategies may include setting regulations on land use, creating buffer zones around water sources, or promoting best management practices among landowners and businesses. The goal is to maintain the integrity of groundwater resources for current and future generations.