Palmer Township Comprehensive Plan Plan

Palmer Township Comprehensive Plan of 2003
A few properties in the northern part of Palmer are currently served by wells. Although most
Palmer residents are not currently dependent upon groundwater, it is important to make sure that
the quality and amounts of groundwater are protected. In the long-term future, it may be
appropriate for some public wells to be built in northern Palmer to supplement the current
sources of water from outside of the Township. Because most of the water sources are located
outside of Palmer, regional efforts will needed to protect the water supplies. Studies have been
completed to identify the most likely sources of contamination of each major water supply,
including upstream companies using large quantities of possible contaminates. It will be
important for the State Department of Environmental Protection to make sure that these facilities
comply with environmental regulations. For example, measures should be installed in advance
(such as impervious surfaces and containment berms) that will be able to contain any accidental
spills before it flows into creeks or the groundwater. Municipalities can also have a role in
informing DEP of businesses that may not be in compliance with environmental regulations.
This Plan is consistent with the State Water Plan. This Plan recognizes that mineral extractions
and intensive livestock and poultry operations may have negative impacts upon water supplies
and are further regulated under State law. Those uses are primarily intended to be limited to the
northwest corner of the township.
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