The goal of the Arkansas Groundwater Monitoring program is to prevent the state's ground water from being polluted by agricultural chemicals and, if pollution is found, to respond appropriately. This goal provides for the protection of the public health and welfare, the propagation and protection of terrestrial and aquatic life, the protection of the environment, the operation of existing industries and agriculture, and the maintenance and enhancement of the long-term economic health of the state. The agency recognizes that preserving groundwater quality is far less costly and more ecologically sound than restoring groundwater to its natural state, a process that may not be technically or economically viable.

The agency monitors groundwater in areas that may be considered vulnerable to agricultural pesticide contamination based on area use patterns and the concentration of agricultural production land in the vicinity. The agency has been monitoring groundwater since 2004 using an EPA approved Pesticide Management Plan which allows the agency to work with the Arkansas Department of Health to determine actions to be taken in the event pesticide contamination is confirmed.

Groundwater Resources:
Groundwater BMP for Pesticide Use