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The President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) has released a new report addressing America’s groundwater resources. Groundwater is central to the health, security, and economic vitality of communities across the United States. It resides in aquifers underground, and it supports nearly half of the nation’s drinking water supply, sustains agricultural production, and powers industries across the country. However, challenges such as depletion, contamination, limited data systems, a shortage of skilled workers, and the impact of climate variability on refilling the aquifers threaten its long-term viability. If these issues remain unresolved, communities risk losing reliable access to clean water, which would strain food production, disrupt essential industries, and trigger far-reaching economic consequences across the nation.

This report offers evidence-based strategies to better support state, Tribal, and local efforts navigating the mounting pressures on this essential resources. To this end, PCAST’s recommendations include:

  • Establish a coordinated interagency working group on groundwater security and sustainability to help integrate groundwater and surface water data, modeling, and risk assessments that can better facilitate informed decision-making and planning at the local levels.
  • Expand research on innovative groundwater technologies for recharge, conservation, contamination mitigation, and sustainable water use.
  • Establish a network of regionally tailored hubs, including Tribal focused hubs, to support knowledge sharing and coordination among local and regional experts.
  • Develop a federal incentive program for sustainable groundwater management to support aquifer restoration, improved water efficiency, and sustainable management practices.
  • Develop methodologies to account for the value of natural capital including groundwater resources and integrate these estimates into cost-benefit analyses and planning across government.
  • Launch a campaign to recruit, develop, and retain well-trained professionals skilled in groundwater science and management to address current and future challenges.

The significance of groundwater as a critical asset demands a forward-looking approach rooted in proactive efforts that include more coordination, shared knowledge, scientific innovations, and adaptability to protect groundwater. Safeguarding groundwater is critical to ensuring that communities across the country can secure safe and affordable drinking water, maintain agricultural productivity, protect ecosystems, and build economic resilience in the face of evolving climate pressures. As stakeholders and local leadership continue to address emerging challenges, these recommendations can serve as pathways for ensuring groundwater’s accessibility and sustainability across our nation.

To view a full copy of the PCAST report, please click here.

To view PCAST’s Letter to the President and the Executive Summary of the report, please click here.

PCAST is the sole body of advisors from outside the federal government charged with making science, technology, and innovation policy recommendations to the President. Learn more about their work here.

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