By Andi Anderson
Michigan, known for its vast water resources, faces an underrecognized environmental issue increasing groundwater salinity. Alan Steinman from Grand Valley State University and a board member of the Alliance for the Great Lakes, explains that the issue stems from the state's geological history. Michigan was once under an ancient seabed, leaving behind deep saltwater aquifers.
These aquifers are becoming problematic as surface water sources are depleted and deeper drilling accesses the saline layers. This issue is especially severe along the state’s shorelines where these aquifers are closer to the surface, affecting agricultural areas like Southwest Michigan and the Thumb region.
In Ottawa County, a notable incident occurred in 2006 when a farmer's crops were destroyed overnight by saline water from a deep well. This led the county to initiate a study with state funding, revealing highly saline water lying unexpectedly close to the surface. Following this, the county has monitored its water sources closely and aimed to drill wells strategically to avoid salty aquifers.
The situation calls for a shift in public perception about water use, emphasizing conservation and practical reuse, especially considering Michigan's identity as the "Great Lakes state." This perception makes it difficult for residents to see water as a limited resource, according to Paul Sachs, Ottawa County’s director of strategic impact.
Certain human activities exacerbate the salinity problem. Eric Chatterson from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy points out that popular water filters add to the salinity issue by releasing saline backwash into the supply.
Despite attempts to regulate this, a law passed in 2013 after lobbying from the restaurant industry raised the limits on sodium and chloride discharges.
Experts like Steinman stress the importance of investing in data collection and mapping of wells and aquifers, as recommended by Michigan’s Water Use Advisory Council in 2022.
The proposed annual cost is $3 million, a necessary expense to prevent future conflicts over water between agricultural and residential users. The ongoing challenge highlights the need for better understanding and management of Michigan’s water resources.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mvburling
Categories: Michigan, Crops, General