Every drop of drinking water begins somewhere. For more than 100,000 people across Owensboro and surrounding communities, that source is a protected underground aquifer. Safeguarding that water supply takes careful planning, ongoing monitoring, and the help of our entire community.
Did You Know?
OMU’s drinking water doesn’t come directly from the Ohio River. It comes from an underground aquifer where water has been naturally filtered through layers of sand and gravel before reaching our wells.
Where Our Water Comes From
- More than 30 groundwater wells
- Wells are 100–150 feet deep
- Water is naturally filtered through the Ohio River Alluvium Aquifer
- Water is transported to the Cavin Water Treatment Plant before distribution
Protecting this underground source is the first step in delivering safe, reliable drinking water every day.
The cleanest water is the water that never becomes contaminated.
What Is Wellhead Protection?
Wellhead Protection is a proactive program designed to keep contaminants away from the groundwater that supplies our public drinking water. Rather than waiting to treat pollution after it occurs, OMU works with local agencies, businesses, and residents to prevent contamination before it reaches our wells.
Prevent
Identify activities that could threaten groundwater.
Monitor
Regular testing and monitoring protect water quality.
Respond
Emergency planning helps minimize risks if an incident occurs.
Why Prevention Matters
Cleaning contaminated groundwater is extremely difficult and expensive. Preventing pollution helps protect public health while reducing treatment costs and preserving our community’s water supply for future generations.
Everyone Has a Role
Homeowners
- Dispose of chemicals properly
- Limit fertilizer and pesticide use
- Maintain septic systems
Businesses
- Store fuels and chemicals safely
- Follow spill prevention practices
- Report accidental releases promptly
Everyone
- Never dump waste into storm drains
- Report suspicious dumping
- Support local water protection efforts
30+
Public Water Wells
100,000+
Residents Served
Every Day
Water Quality Testing
100+ Years
Providing Safe Drinking Water