Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
St. Paul, Minn.

What is an aquifer?

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!
Aquifer map
A map showing different types of aquifers which provide groundwater to the Upper Midwest.
Map courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey

This week the city of Chanhassen issued a watering ban after three of its 11 wells failed, pumping sand or air instead of water.

The underground aquifers that the southwest suburb draws on, like others around the metro area, haven't been able to recharge because of the drought conditions blanketing most of the state.

MPR's Steven John talked with Chris Elvrum, the water supply planning manager for the Metropolitan Council, to get a primer on aquifers.

Gallery
1 of 1
Aquifer map
A map showing different types of aquifers which provide groundwater to the Upper Midwest.
Map courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey