COSAM News Articles 2022 November Geographic information scientist seeks to help people dependent on private well water

Geographic information scientist seeks to help people dependent on private well water

Published: 12/11/2022

“My dedication and passion to help human vulnerability drives my research,” said Jake Nelson, assistant professor in the Department of Geosciences. “I want to help ensure that people have equal access to resources that benefit their health and their families. And, with the impact of climate change, the risk to these populations is only going to increase.”

Nelson is the recipient of a $22,652.50 grant from the United States Geological Survey via the Alabama Water Resources Research Institute, or AWRRI, that runs through Aug. 2023.

“Private wells are not regulated by the EPA, state, or local government agencies so well owners are responsible for monitoring and mitigating any contamination that may occur. They are often unaware if their water source is contaminated with bacteria or pathogens,” Nelson said.

He is working with Stephanie Rogers and Ann Ojeda also from the Department of Geosciences.

“By using geodata science techniques and geographic information systems, or GIS, this project will determine what specific geographic areas might be at higher risk for contamination,” he said.

The project is also specifically focused on identifying risks to socially vulnerable populations.

“By identifying vulnerable populations, we can help reduce the risk to historically underrepresented groups that may not have the resources necessary to mitigate contaminated wells,” Nelson added.

He is seeking to create a contamination risk model for anyone in the community. It will look at well-owner communities in-depth and provide insight as to the number of well owners in a region, where they are located, and who they are, which is not currently available.

“This project will help build a baseline to grow into a larger effort,” Nelson said. “We are looking forward to increasing the efficacy of private well sampling campaigns and increase awareness of the resources provided by private well programs, such as the one administered by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, through targeted outreach events.”