Montpelier, Vt. – Groundwater is vital to the health, safety, and welfare of Vermont’s communities. Each year, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) asks groundwater users who withdraw more than 20,000 gallons per day to report annual usage. Groundwater users who withdraw more than 57,600 gallons per day for commercial and industrial uses may require a permit. By properly managing this limited resource, DEC helps ensure that Vermonters will continue to access groundwater now and in the future.

“Groundwater is a precious, finite, and invaluable natural resource. Vermonters rely on it for drinking water, agriculture, industry, and habitat,” said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli. “Our department is responsible for protecting the quality and quantity of Vermont’s groundwater resources. Our scientists use annual usage report data to better protect and manage this vital resource that is held in public trust for all Vermonters.”

In 2008, Act 199 established the large groundwater withdrawal program. The following uses are exempt from the groundwater withdrawal reporting and permitting rules:

• Fire suppression or public emergencies,
• Domestic or residential uses,
• Farming, dairy processing, and milk handling,
• Public water systems, and
• Non-extractive geothermal systems.

“Groundwater is the quiet foundation of life in Vermont — it’s the lifeblood of our farms, our families, and the beautiful streams, rivers, and lakes that define our landscape,” said Sille Larsen, DEC Engineering and Water Resources Program Manager. “Protecting and managing it today ensures our communities and natural beauty will thrive for generations to come.”

Learn more about groundwater withdrawal and reporting requirements online. Contact Julia Beaudoin, Julia.Beaudoin@Vermont.gov, for technical assistance.

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The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont’s natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Stephanie Brackin (she/her)  |  Communications Director

Vermont Agency of Natural Resources

1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620-3901

802-261-0606 | stephanie.brackin@vermont.gov

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