Abstract

Groundwater is water found beneath the earth’s surface and located at the water table below. In Canada, there is more water underground than on the surface. Groundwater occurs in the tiny spaces between loose materials on top of bedrock, or in cracks of bedrock. The most important concentrations are in aquifers, near the top level of the water table. About eight million people, or 26% of the population, depend on groundwater. Approximately two-thirds, or five million, of these users live in rural areas. Groundwater is also used for livestock watering, irrigation, aquaculture (fish farms), and mineral and hydrocarbon extraction.