Welcome to the Ground Water Institute’s (GWI) web site.  I hope you enjoy learning more about GWI’s research and activities.

GWI houses expert on ground water issues and conducts research related to the Memphis aquifer.  We evaluate the quantity, quality, reliability, and sustainability of all aspects of ground water assessment, management, and development.  We are an independent and neutral voice in evaluating ground water issue in the Mid-South region. 

In Memphis and Shelby County, some of the purest and best tasting water in the world is found.  I like to refer to this natural resource as a hidden treasure since the vast underground reservoir of water is hidden from view, for the most part.  It is hidden only in the sense that in is not normally visible – it is in a large and natural underground system called an aquifer that consists of alternating clay and sand layers. 

Although the aquifer runs under nine states, it contains an unknown amount of water and needs proper management so that current and future generations will continue to be provided with quality water.  To ensure that this happens, the GWI was established in 1991 with its mission being to "understand, improve, and protect current and future ground water quality and quantity through research, education, and application."

One of our most important research areas is determining the rate the aquifer is being replenished.  To do this, we are studying the interaction between ground water and surface water.  Once we understand how at what rate the ground water is being replenished, then we will be able to better manage how we use our water.

In conducting research, we use current technology while also developing new methods for more accurate information.  As we continue to make progress in our research, we aim to develop technology and methods that can be used elsewhere, not just in local area.

Additionally, GWI is a central source of information, providing technical support to local governments (Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Memphis and Millington), and the Shelby County Ground Water Control Boar through specialized studies and investigations.

The GWI vision is to have plentiful drinking water for many future generations.   Although we may sometimes take our quality and quantity of water for granted, we must not forget that our water is finite and is exposed to an ever-increasing assault on its purity and quantity.  Each of us should view water conservation as a practice and not as a reaction to drought.  I encourage you to learn more about what you can do to help protect and preserve this precious natural resource that is essential for life, water.  As you look over our web site, you will find information and links about how you can make a difference. 

Sincerely,

Jerry Anderson

Director, GWI