BTR FYI: Why We Should Pay Closer Attention to Our Water Sources

Your water matters — and here’s why

Water is essential — for life, for families, for farms, and for our local economy. During Groundwater Awareness Week we’re reminded of something both simple and profound: the water beneath our feet sustains much of what we depend on every day. Groundwater feeds private wells, supports streams and rivers, and connects with surface waters that recharge public systems. But here in Wicomico County, that groundwater isn’t always as pristine as we hope — and that has real consequences for families and renters alike.

Groundwater Can Be Vulnerable — Here’s Why

Most rural and private water supplies in our region come from shallow aquifers — water-bearing layers close to the ground surface. While this makes wells accessible, it also makes them susceptible to contaminants moving downward from the surface. Septic system failures, runoff from fertilized lawns and agricultural fields, and industrial activities can carry nutrients, bacteria, and chemicals into the water that ends up in our wells.

That’s especially concerning because once contaminants enter groundwater, they don’t just disappear. They move with the water flow and can affect multiple wells and properties over time.

PFAS “Forever Chemicals”: A Major Local Concern

One of the biggest local challenges is PFAS contamination — the so-called “forever chemicals” linked by health experts to various risks including certain cancers, liver and kidney stress, and other health impacts:

• Elevated levels of PFAS have been detected in groundwater near the Perdue AgriBusiness facility in Salisbury, prompting ongoing testing, mitigation, and community concern.
• Local lawsuits and community meetings reflect continuing worries about how far these contaminants may have spread and whether current mitigation is sufficient.
• Residents have reported needing bottled water or filtering systems while questions about health impacts and long-term cleanup continue.

While public water systems like the City of Salisbury’s municipal supply currently meet all regulatory standards, private wells — which many rural residents rely on — are not covered by the same federal protections.

Drought & Supply Issues Add Another Layer

Beyond contamination, water supply itself can be vulnerable. Periods of drought reduce groundwater recharge, stress surface water flows, and change how contaminants move underground. Awareness of both quantity and quality is essential for long-term resilience.

What This Means for You

1. Know Your Source — And Its Risks

If you depend on a private well, stay informed about local land use and water quality trends. Regular, comprehensive testing (beyond basic bacteria checks) can catch problems before they escalate.

2. Surface Activities Affect Underground Water

Every septic system, lawn fertilizer application, or industrial discharge contributes to the bigger groundwater picture. Pollutants don’t vanish — they migrate.

3. Advocacy & Engagement Matter

Public awareness and local policy — from monitoring networks to sewer and water infrastructure planning — help protect both water quality and community health.

Landlord Responsibilities for Safe Drinking Water

If you rent a home in Maryland — especially one served by a private well — there are specific legal protections designed to ensure your water is safe and drinkable:

✨ Landlords must provide functional hot and cold running water, as part of basic habitability requirements.
✨ For homes served by private wells, Maryland’s law (House Bill 1069) requires:
• Water quality testing at least every three years, with results shared with current and prospective tenants before a lease is signed.
• If testing shows contaminants above safe levels, landlords must notify state and local agencies, provide an approved potable water supply while the issue is fixed, and resolve the problem within 60 days — or give the tenant the option to end the lease.
✨ Failure to meet these requirements can result in civil penalties.

These protections recognize that private wells don’t fall under federal Safe Drinking Water Act oversight, so the state ensures renters aren’t left without safe water.

Groundwater Awareness Isn’t Just a Week — It’s a Priority

The health of our water affects our families, our environment, and our economy. Paying attention isn’t alarmism — it’s stewardship. When we understand where our water comes from, how it can be affected, and what protections are in place, we’re better equipped to protect ourselves and our neighbors.

💧 Because clean, safe water isn’t just a resource — it’s our right.