Unlike many communities, Cornish has no reservoir or Town water supply, so we must depend on groundwater, aquifers, shallow wells, and springs for our water supply. Groundwater and aquifers are terms that are often used interchangeably, because these sources of drinking water are both found in rock, sand and gravel deposits below ground. Rain and snowmelt recharge the groundwater resource, and water availability may be affected by drought conditions.

Groundwater and aquifers are protected by state regulations that cover septic systems, waste disposal sites, agricultural runoff, underground fuel storage tanks, and other facilities that could negatively affect aquifer and groundwater quality.

The National Groundwater Association (LINK) has published a list of what residents can do to protect and conserve groundwater.

• Use native plants in your landscape. They support pollinators, vital to our food supply, and generally don’t need extra watering or fertilizer.
• Reduce Chemical Use. Use fewer chemicals around your home and yard, and make sure to dispose of them properly at a community hazardous waste collection event – don’t dump them on the ground or down the drain.
• Manage hazardous waste. Properly dispose of potentially toxic substances like unused chemicals, pharmaceuticals, paint, and motor oil. The Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Regional Planning Commission hosts household hazardous waste collection days – see the 2022 schedule at this LINK.
• Use all natural/nontoxic household cleaners whenever possible. Materials such as lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar make great cleaning products, are inexpensive, and environmentally-friendly.

View Groundwater Aquifers Map of Cornish: LINK