Hydrology
Hydrology
Delaware’s water, both ground and surface, is one of its most important natural resources. It is essential for meeting the needs of all segments of our society and for maintaining economic growth and agriculture. At this time all water used for public and domestic supply and more than 98% of water used for irrigation south of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal is ground water. North of the canal, approximately 70% of public water supplies are obtained from four surface-water sources (creeks) and 30% from ground-water resources. Hydrologic investigations are fundamentally important in aiding policy-decision makers. As Delaware’s lead earth science agency, the Delaware Geological Survey provides information to inform and educate resource managers and the public to better understand and manage our water resources. The Delaware Geological Survey, by statute, manages and provides liaison for all state-federal projects related to the DGS-USGS Joint-Funded and Partnering Programs.