Vulnerable Aquifers
Objectives
Protect vulnerable aquifers from pollution and depletion to ensure a continued supply of clean, accessible groundwater for residents not served by the municipal water system. Preserve groundwater recharge zones from which water can percolate and infiltrate.
Guidelines and Best Practices
When proposing a development project within an area of high to moderate aquifer vulnerability as shown in the following map, strive to meet objectives by utilizing the following guidelines and best practices.
Avoidance
- Preserve natural open spaces, including native prairies wherever possible. Native plants are drought tolerant and have deep root structures that slow stormwater runoff and increase ground water retention.
Minimization
- Utilize low impact development techniques, to minimize disruption to water percolation and infiltration, including but not limited to:
- Pervious surface materials wherever possible for the construction of driveways, parking areas, sidewalks, patios, etc., in order to promote increased water percolation and infiltration.
- Bioswales and rain gardens to capture stormwater and allow it to slowly infiltrate instead of running off.
