Safe water matters.
It keeps us healthy and hydrated, cooks our pasta and rice, bathes our tiniest babies, and quenches the thirst of our flowers and fields. Here are some ways Illinois researchers are working to protect local water.
Advanced helicopter-based technology is used by researchers to map the Mahomet Aquifer, securing water for nearly 500,000 residents. This critical research ensures our community’s water supply remains safe and sustainable for future generations.
Did you know?
An Illinois study found that increased water intake improves children’s ability to multitask. Researchers observed 9- to 11-year-olds who, after drinking more water for four days, had faster reaction times and better cognitive flexibility.
“Reliable access to clean water is fundamental to our communities, industries, and the overall growth of our local economy. We’re fortunate that researchers are mapping the aquifer and gathering data to ensure that this vital resource can continue to serve over a million people now and in the future.”
Laura Weis, President & CEO
Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Researchers are leading efforts to develop innovative water conservation and reuse techniques, which protect the state’s water supply, benefit wildlife and human populations, and provide significant cost savings for industries across the state.
Q&A: Kisa Mwakanyamale-Gilkie, Geophysics research scientist at Illinois
What do you enjoy about the Champaign-Urbana area?
I love the sense of community. There is a sense of oneness and togetherness everywhere you go. I also appreciate the cultural diversity and the chance to meet some very interesting people from all over the world.
Briefly explain your research.
I use principles of physics to study the subsurface for groundwater and environmental investigations. My research answers important questions about water availability, water quality and water quantity.
What sparked your interest in this research?
I remember when I met my graduate school academic advisor for the first time, he asked me what kind of research I would like to do. I answered that I would like to do research that would have a direct impact on people’s lives. It’s not by chance that the majority of my research is in groundwater investigations. Water is crucial for our everyday lives.
How do you hope your work impacts people?
My research has direct implications for domestic water use, agriculture and industrial use, and ecosystem sustainability. It is my hope that my research will answer all important questions to enable communities to achieve basic water security, both in quantity and quality, for sustainable socio-economic development and a healthy ecosystem.
Did you know?
Water is such a valuable resource it requires a team of scientists to protect it. Illinois’ “Center for Secure Water” was formed in 2024 for researchers to pioneer ways to protect clean water access for human consumption, agriculture, industry, and ecosystems.
The quality and safety of drinking water from private domestic wells are not regulated by the Federal Government. Illinois’ private well program educates homeowners on private wells and the professionals that serve them on protecting the quality of their drinking water. (Learn more below!)
