What’s happening: A multidisciplinary research center hosted at the University of Memphis has received a prestigious state award for its five-year study on the Memphis aquifer. The Center for Applied Earth Science and Engineering Research (CAESAR) was presented with the Governor's Environmental Stewardship Award in Water Quality in recognition of its five-year study of the Memphis aquifer.
What it is: The Memphis Light Gas and Water (MLGW) Aquifer Study was funded by MLGW and performed by CAESAR, a five-year analysis of the natural aquifer that supplies Memphis, Shelby County, and West Tennessee with its drinking water. The study discovered that the aquifer, long-believed to be a pristine water source for the region, is, in fact, compromised by at least 35 naturally occurring holes and breaches in its protective clay layer. Direct educational outreach was extended to more than 10,000 West Tennessee residents in efforts to protect the critical water source.
Why it’s important: "Tennessee continues to be a place where we can grow our economy and protect our natural resources at the same time," says Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Commissioner David Salyers. "A big part of what makes Tennessee special is the individual contributions made by our citizens that help keep Tennessee beautiful."
What they won: The Governor's Environmental Stewardship Awards “are presented annually to recognize outstanding achievements by individuals, local governments, businesses, organizations, educational institutions, and agencies for successful environmental projects and conservation measures,” per the TDEC
website.
"These organizations go above and beyond what is required to protect our natural resources, and we are grateful for their dedication," says Governor Lee. "Tennessee is recognized around the world for its beauty and natural treasures, and organizations like these play a significant role in securing such a prestigious position."
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