The History and Future of the Black Hills' Groundwater

Is the "Black Hills groundwater" an important resource for South Dakotans? How was this "historic landmark" U.S. Department of the Interior created, and when was it discovered? Are there any other groundwater resources in the area that would fulfill the population's daily needs? What kind of historical stories or well-known legends are associated with this natural masterpiece? Did you know that this source of fresh water could hazardous to the people's health?

Valuable Asset

Fresh Water Source

According to USDI (2007), the Black Hills fresh groundwater is an important resource for most South Dakotans. Each resident uses the water daily for cooking, drinking, and bathing. Additionally, some residents in Wyoming also "depend" on the water from the Black Hills. Since, the ground water actually "recharges the aquifer", which services their communities. Recently, the geologists have been trying to find other groundwater sources. This way, they can ease pressure cause by the "increasing population" in these two states.

Drying up

With the "1980's drought", the state officials began noticing how important resources in the black hills were. The officials had no choice, but set "water management" laws in each city or they would run out of water. However, the "rapidly expanding population" caused a further strain on the future availability resources. According to USDI (2007), the "periodic droughts" have caused the water table to drop each year. Unfortunately, this non-renewable resource is a slowly drying up the cities groundwater and aquifers. So far, the research shows that these cities will face drought conditions in the future...unless something is done now.

Possible Hazards