Submitted by the Sparta Groundwater Commission to the Minden Press-Herald for publication
Did you know that approximately 238,000 people across 16 parishes in northwest Louisiana rely on the Sparta aquifer groundwater for their drinking water? The Sparta has been heavily pumped over the last 80 years and has seen decline in levels as much as three feet over the last thirty years.
In response to concerns, the Louisiana legislature formed the Sparta Groundwater Commission in 1999.
Since the formation of the Commission and its efforts to study the aquifer and to educate and advocate the public about the hazards of overuse, a quantifiable recovery in some northern wells has been observed.
There is still much work to do and you can help us continue our work by making a financial contribution on #GivingTuesday to the non-profit Sparta Foundation. The Foundation funds the research, advocacy, and education imperative for the preservation of the Sparta Aquifer.
We employ a full time educator that has been contracted to conduct regional programs within the 16 Sparta parishes. All of your generous contributions will aid the education programs our educator has developed.
Without the support of the people in North Louisiana the Sparta Aquifer will continue to rapidly be depleted each year. It is important that a progressive stand is made to protect a major water source in North Louisiana.
To contribute to the Sparta Groundwater Commission go to our website at spartaaquifer.com and click on the “Donate” button
Thank you for you contributions and remember, EVERY DROP COUNTS!