In an effort to reduce dependence on groundwater and extend the life of the area’s stressed aquifers, the Charles County Commissioners have taken the leadership in proposing a solution to finding alternative sources of water by exercising a past agreement to purchase water from the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission.
Under the established agreement the Commissioners want to pump up to 1.4 million gallons of water from a WSSC Booster station into greater Charles County in the near future.
“This move will supplement current groundwater supplies and allow the county to further explore other opportunities, like the reuse of treated effluent water to reduce the use of fresh or potable water,” said Bill Shreve, Director of Public Utilities for Charles County.
“Purchasing the water from WSSC will allow the aquifers in the county to recover at a faster rate. It will reduce the “draw down,” and allow the aquifers to replenish,” Shreve added. He concluded that this is a major step towards ensuring a sustainable water supply for all citizens in the county, including those on private wells.
The Commissioners’ decision will allow the new water to begin flowing from WSSC beginning March 1. The additional cost of this water will be paid for using funds from the county’s Utility Department Water and Sewer fund balance through June 30. New rates for water users will be established effective July 1 (2009) to cover this on-going cost.
The Commissioners recently directed the County Attorney to draft legislation for the Maryland General Assembly which would permit the county to add to the County’s current Environmental Service Fund amounts necessary to help cover the cost of the purchase of this water through a county-wide aquifer restoration program. The County Attorney has completed this and sent it to the county delegation in Annapolis.
“We’re trying to do what’s best for all the residents of Charles County,” said Commissioner President Wayne Cooper. “We understand the challenge before us, and we’re determined to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the quality of life here in the County,” added Cooper.
Commissioner Samuel N. Graves Jr. (District 1) added that the Commissioners will continue to explore opportunities to find alternative water sources. “Our actions today, show our concern in preserving our precious water sources. We can’t afford to wait until the faucet has been turned off, and then try to solve the problem.”
Commissioner Gary V. Hodge (District 4) said that “the gradual depletion of our aquifers has been an issue in Southern Maryland for many years. This Board of Commissioners is taking steps to do something about it. All our citizens will benefit when a new source of water starts flowing to Charles County, and we will be working to make sure that the cost is shared in a fair and equitable way.”