Aquifers

What is an aquifer – and why is it important?

An aquifer is an underground layer of permeable rock, gravel, sand, or silt that stores and allows groundwater to flow through it. Aquifers act as natural reservoirs, supplying water for drinking, agriculture, and industry. They are typically replenished by rain and snowmelt that slowly seep down through the ground. 

Aquifers are vulnerable to several threats, including over-pumping, contamination from surface activities, and the effects of climate change. Once polluted, aquifers are extremely difficult and expensive to clean.

For Dedham and Westwood, aquifers are not a backup resource – they are the primary source of drinking water. Protecting them is essential to safeguarding public health, maintaining water supply reliabilty, and ensuring a sustainable future for the community.

The diagram above shows the Dedham Westwood Water District. The town of Dedham is outlined in red on the right, and the underlying aquifers are shown in teal.