News Summary
The University of Memphis has initiated a five-year research project aimed at evaluating drinking water safety in Shelby County. Funded by taxpayers, this effort is led by the Center for Applied Earth Science and Engineering Research and aims to address public concerns regarding water quality, especially related to the Memphis Sand Aquifer. Early findings indicate potential risks from protective clay breaches. Community forums will be held to engage residents and address water quality complaints, with the goal of promoting awareness and responsible water management practices.
Memphis – The University of Memphis (UofM) has initiated a five-year, $9.75 million research project focused on evaluating the drinking water safety for residents of Shelby County. This initiative is spearheaded by the Center for Applied Earth Science and Engineering Research (CAESAR) and is funded by taxpayer dollars. The project is currently entering its second phase, having already gathered preliminary data that was discussed during a public forum held on June 23 at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library.
The primary goal of this initiative is to address the pressing question: “How safe is our drinking water?” University officials revealed early findings related to the integrity of the Memphis Sand Aquifer and the potential risks posed by breaches in protective clay layers surrounding it. These findings highlight the need for public awareness regarding water quality, contaminant risks, and proper waste management practices.
During the forum, which had modest attendance, residents expressed significant concerns about their drinking water. Common worries included inadequate well water testing and issues with the Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) utility service. One notable participant shared the struggles her family faced with poor water quality in Westwood, revealing they had resorted to purchasing bottled water due to continued problems over the previous five years.
CAESAR Director Brian Waldron emphasized the critical role of community education in promoting water safety. He noted the importance of being informed about how to properly dispose of waste and use water responsibly. UofM officials have invited residents to voice their concerns and participate in upcoming forums designed to facilitate further discussions on water issues.
In addition to the recent forum, several public forums are planned for later this year, with two more set to occur in 2026. These sessions are intended to provide continuous engagement between the university, researchers, and community members. University officials have committed to forwarding any water quality complaints from residents directly to MLGW to ensure that concerns are addressed appropriately.
Background context reveals that Shelby Countyโs drinking water safety has been under scrutiny for years, driven by both environmental concerns and health issues that surface within the community. Historically, the region relies heavily on the Memphis Sand Aquifer, which is a vital water source for the area but faces threats from various contaminants and infrastructure challenges.
The UofMโs initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhance environmental health and ensure that residents have access to safe drinking water. It aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of community involvement in local health matters, particularly regarding essential resources like drinking water. The project’s findings and conclusions may play a crucial role in shaping policies and practices surrounding water quality and safety in Shelby County.
As the initiative progresses, residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged, reinforcing a collective effort to maintain, protect, and enhance the quality of drinking water in their region.
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Additional Resources
- Local Memphis: University of Memphis Drinking Water Study
- Fox 13 Memphis: Protecting Memphis Water Supply
- WREG: Toxic Tour in North Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis: Fluoride in Drinking Water
- Action News 5: MLGW Water Pipe Replacement
- Wikipedia: Drinking Water Quality
- Google Search: Drinking Water Supply Memphis
- Google Scholar: Water Safety Research Projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Quality
- Google News: Memphis Water Quality Issues
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
