Depleted groundwater forces cities to find new water sources

The Cambrian-Ordovician Aquifer is tapped for water in Northwest Illinois and surrounding states.

Reset with Sasha-Ann Simons

Groundwater depletion is a big problem, even in the Great Lakes region

Over the past four decades, industries and communities have rapidly depleted groundwater found in underground aquifer systems all across the nation, according to an analysis conducted by the New York Times. Even municipalities in Illinois — a state surrounded by fresh water sources — are having to make decisions about where to source water once their wells run dry. Reset speaks with water supply experts about sustainable ways to relieve Illinois’ stressed water systems.

The Cambrian-Ordovician Aquifer is tapped for water in Northwest Illinois and surrounding states.

U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey

By Landon Jones

Over the past four decades, industries and communities have rapidly depleted groundwater found in underground aquifer systems all across the nation, according to an analysis conducted by the New York Times. Even municipalities in Illinois — a state surrounded by fresh water sources — are having to make decisions about where to source water once their wells run dry.

Reset speaks with water supply experts about sustainable ways to relieve Illinois’ stressed water systems.

GUESTS: Rachel Havrelock, director, UIC’s Freshwater Lab

IL State Rep. Ann Williams, 11th District

Jen Walling, executive director, Illinois Environmental Council