Environment Council of Rhode Island

...building an ecologically healthy future in a sustainable economy

Aquifer Protection

By way of implementing its comprehensive plan, North Kingstown has been protecting its groundwater — its sole source of drinking water — by preserving critical lands above the aquifers. Using overlay zoning, a revised groundwater protection ordinance, open space acquisition bonding, and dedication of the real estate conveyance tax for land purchase and farmland preservation, North Kingstown's Groundwater Protection Program has focused on conservation within its designated groundwater protection zones. The town has also educated homeowners on septic system maintenance and passed an ordinance that septic systems be inspected or pumped every three years.

Award Type: 
John H. Chafee Outstanding Conservation Project/Program
Award Year: 
2000