VDH operates programs under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and several state statutes that regulate public water supplies, many of which use ground water. The program includes construction-standards, monitoring, and compliance components. The Department works toward this goal in partnership with local governments, promoting sound land use planning in a manner that balances the objectives of improved water quality and economic development. VCE helps people to shape their futures through research-based educational programs. One of the ways this has been addressed is county ground water testing in many locations around the state.
Agriculture is a major user of ground water in Virginia.
Agriculture can also affect ground water as a result of activities involving pesticides, fertilizers, animal wastes, and other materials. Through an industry visitation program, it serves as state government's principal point of contact for communications with business and industry. DBA can address the groundwater needs of industry and explain the state's programs for conserving and protecting ground water. Through land management planning, funding, education and regulation, DCR activity touches many Virginians. One of the important programs from a ground water perspective is the 319 grant program, which has supported a variety of research and implementation projects by state agencies, Planning District Commissions, and universities in Virginia.