Fact Check: 53% of aquifers in the US are losing water

Claim Analysis: "53% of aquifers in the US are losing water"

1. Introduction

The claim that "53% of aquifers in the US are losing water" has gained attention, particularly in discussions about water scarcity and environmental sustainability. This assertion is reportedly based on recent research published in a scientific journal, which suggests a significant decline in groundwater levels across many regions of the United States. This article will explore the available evidence, analyze the credibility of the sources, and provide context surrounding this claim.

2. What We Know

Several sources provide information regarding the status of aquifers in the United States:

• A study published in Nature indicates that more than half (53%) of the groundwater aquifers in the U.S. are experiencing declines in water levels. The research highlights that rapid groundwater-level declines are particularly prevalent in arid regions with extensive agricultural practices 89.

• The New York Times also reported on this issue, emphasizing that unchecked overuse of groundwater is threatening aquifers nationwide. The article cites various data investigations that corroborate the claim of significant groundwater depletion 6.

• NASA's Earth Observatory provides insights into groundwater declines specifically in the U.S. Southwest, noting a substantial reduction in underground water supplies over the past two decades 2.

• A report from the White House's Office of Science and Technology Policy discusses the broader implications of groundwater depletion, linking it to climate change and unsustainable water management practices 3.

3. Analysis

The claim that 53% of aquifers in the U.S. are losing water is supported by multiple credible sources, but it is essential to critically evaluate these sources for reliability and potential biases:

• Source Credibility: The Nature study is a peer-reviewed scientific publication, which generally indicates a high level of scrutiny and reliability. However, the specific methodologies used in the study should be examined to understand how the researchers defined "losing water" and the criteria for selecting the aquifers studied.

• Potential Bias: The New York Times is a reputable news outlet, but like all media, it may have editorial biases that influence how information is presented. Their reporting on environmental issues often emphasizes the urgency of climate change, which could shape the narrative around groundwater depletion.

• Conflicts of Interest: The White House report may have inherent biases as it is produced by a government entity, which may aim to highlight environmental issues to support policy initiatives. It is crucial to consider the motivations behind the publication of such reports.

• Methodology Questions: The definition of "losing water" is critical. Does it refer to a specific percentage decline, or is it a more general observation? Additionally, understanding the geographic scope and data collection methods used in the studies would provide better insight into the reliability of the claim.

• Contradicting Evidence: While the majority of sources support the claim, it is important to seek out studies that may present a different perspective or offer counterarguments. For example, some regions may show recovery or stabilization in groundwater levels due to improved management practices or changes in precipitation patterns.

4. Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that 53% of aquifers in the U.S. are losing water is substantiated by multiple credible sources, including a peer-reviewed study published in Nature and corroborating reports from reputable outlets such as The New York Times and NASA's Earth Observatory. These sources collectively indicate a significant decline in groundwater levels, particularly in arid regions and areas with intensive agricultural practices.

However, it is important to note that the definition of "losing water" can vary, and the methodologies used in the studies warrant further scrutiny to fully understand the implications of the findings. Additionally, while the majority of evidence supports the claim, there may be localized instances of groundwater recovery or stabilization that are not captured in the broader analysis.

Readers should remain aware of the limitations in the available evidence and the potential biases of the sources. It is advisable to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when assessing claims related to environmental issues.

5. Sources

1. Annual Water Resources Report - West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. Link
2. Groundwater Declines in the U.S. Southwest - NASA Earth Observatory. Link
3. Improving Groundwater Security in the United States - White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Link
4. Climate Change and Lakes - NPR. Link
5. Rapid Groundwater Decline - Nature. Link
6. America Is Using Up Its Groundwater - The New York Times. Link
7. Predictions of Groundwater PFAS Occurrence - Science. Link
8. Majority of America's Underground Water Stores Are Drying - The Hill. Link
9. 53% of Groundwater Aquifers Are Losing Water - FLOW. Link
10. Groundwater Depletion and Sustainability of Irrigation - Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Link