Posted on August 31, 2026 by Trinity Espinoza

This Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026, is Protect Your Groundwater Day!

As promoted by WellOwner.org and the National Groundwater Association (NGWA), this annual celebration acknowledges the importance of protecting this vital water resource. Groundwater accounts for ~95% of all accessible fresh water on earth with rivers and lakes making up the remaining 5%.

Well owners can easily access resources to maintain their wells through the EAA website. Through a simple checklist, well owners can ensure that they are following best practices for well maintenance and protection. Even when properly maintained, wells should be inspected several times per year to look for structural issues, analyze contamination risk, and test for water quality. The EAA offers inspections for well owners across all counties within the EAA jurisdiction, to learn more or request an appointment click here. In the event your well does require maintenance, a list of trusted contractors can be found on the same web page! It is recommended to keep detailed records of all work and tests performed on your well. These records help to ensure your well is properly registered, provide baseline functionality, and indicate any changes in water quality.

While you may not use a well to supply water in your home, many properties have historic wells which continue to lead directly to the aquifer. These unchecked wells pose the risk of contamination entering the aquifer. In this case, property owners should still register the well and consider capping or plugging it. Through the EAA’s Abandoned Well Program, abandoned wells can be identified and addressed. Staff can provide the necessary guidance in locating and sealing the well.

Good Well vs Bad Well Exhibit

Groundwater protection encompasses much more than well maintenance. It can be impacted by multiple factors including land management practices, over pumping, mismanaged waste, and more. As an individual, you can protect our water in many ways!

Disposing of waste properly can have a big impact in a highly urbanized area like San Antonio. Oil, fertilizers, industrial solvents, and other liquids can spill in storage or after being thrown out. When these chemicals are released into the environment, they can seep into the soil, eventually permeating into the aquifer. While it may seem inconsequential in small amounts, these small spills add up over time. Everyday trash can impact the groundwater quality as well. When trash is not disposed of properly, it may fly off in the wind or end up caught in vegetation. During a precipitation event, this trash can be swept away in the water. When this water reaches the recharge zone, it is able to enter the aquifer, along with anything it carries with it.

EAA EOC Groundwater Guardians Cards

Do you want to participate in “Protect Your Groundwater Day”? Here are a couple of ways to show your support:

1. Share this blog post on social media with your friends and family. After all, sharing knowledge is how we can work together to be aquifer smart!
2. Visit our center and check out our “Good Well vs Bad Well” exhibit to see how the EAA regulates wells, and you can use the special camera to inspect and explore a deteriorated well.
3. Collect our FREE limited-edition Groundwater Guardians Cards featuring the threatened and endangered species of the Edwards Aquifer! (while supplies last)

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