What Can We Learn From Exemplary Groundwater Protection Programs?

Abstract

Source water protection is receiving considerable attention due to contamination concerns related to drinking water. While this important issue has intensified over the past decade, several municipalities in Canada and the United Stated have considerable experience with practicing groundwater protection. This research investigates wellhead protection programs in the Region of Waterloo (Ontario) and the City of Dayton (Ohio). The context and process of developing these exemplary municipal groundwater protection programs are described. Cross-case analysis compares the cases in terms of the development process, employment of regulatory and non-regulatory tools, points of innovation, and challenges confronted. Experiences from these cases confirms the need for an appropriate mix of tools for groundwater protection, the importance of organizational capacity and the need for supportive and flexible institutional arrangements. Suggestions are offered for municipalities undertaking groundwater protection programs.