Delmarva Today 4-2-21
Harold Wilson’s guest on Delmarva Today is Ms. Jean Holloway, the Delaware and Maryland State Manager for the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP). SERCAP is a nonprofit organization that helps upgrade water and wastewater systems in small rural towns and communities. Other community development services may also be provided. Under some circumstances, individual well owners may also be assisted.
On Wednesday, March 31, President Biden announced a new initiative to address the nation’s declining infrastructure and create a stronger and more innovative economy. The bill would provide more than $300 billion to improve drinking-water infrastructure, expand broadband access, and upgrade the nation’s electric grid.
This is good news for the more than 13 million households who rely on private wells for drinking water here in the US. Private wells are not regulated by the EPA and the safety of the water falls to the well owner. Contaminants such as coliform bacteria, nitrates, organic chemicals, and even arsenic can contaminate private wells.
It is clear that water is fundamental for human life. Each of us requires at least five and a half to thirteen gallons of clean, safe water each day for drinking, cooking, and simply keeping ourselves clean.