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Aquifers across the metro area are not all connected, though. Groundwater does not flow all the <br /> way from Anoka County to Dakota County and vice versa. The region can be roughly divided <br /> into six aquifer areas or subregions that have relatively similar aquifer characteristics. <br /> Considering groundwater through this subregional aquifer approach can help organize the <br /> Council's recommendations and decisions about water supply plan requirements and research <br /> investments — including the location, scope and timing of different activities. The Council has <br /> supported the development of subregional work groups that have focused on water supply <br /> limitations in those areas. Groundwater limitations have been and continue to be a main focus <br /> of these work groups. <br /> As the permitting agency for water withdrawals, the Department of Natural Resources is a key <br /> partner for the Council. The Council and DNR work closely on water supply issues, including the <br /> development and review of water supply plans and actions, as well as on planning for any <br /> designated groundwater management areas in the region. <br /> Policy on Sustainable Water Supplies: <br /> The Council shall support and plan for the sustainable use of water sources that focuses on the <br /> implications of increasing groundwater use including impacts to surface waters, wetlands, and <br /> ecological areas while ensuring that supplies of potable water are sufficient for the region's <br /> current population and projected growth. <br /> Implementation Strategies: <br /> t Collaborate with agency partners in developing and implementing Groundwater <br /> Management Areas, wellhead protection plans, review of water appropriation permits, <br /> and aquifer recharge projects. <br /> • Facilitate discussions on water supply issues that transcend community boundaries, <br /> through subregional work groups and on ars ad hoc basis as needed. <br /> • In partnership with subregional work groups and relevant agencies, identify desired <br /> groundwater levels and other indicators for those subregional areas. <br /> f Provide technical assistance to local governments and other partners on water supply <br /> issues. <br /> • Promote water supply resiliency by identifying and pursuing options to increase surface <br /> water use, when economically feasible. <br /> Planning for Regional Growth <br /> The Council is responsible for providing direction on the planning for and management of our <br /> water resources in support of the orderly and economical growth and development of the region <br /> while taking into consideration the interrelationships of land use, growth patterns, transportation, <br /> water resources protection, and other regional services. With a growing population, more <br /> business and industry, and a changing environment, the long-range outlook for clean water is <br /> challenging. Adequate access to high quality water supplies, proper treatment and disposal of <br /> stormwater, and sustainable wastewater treatment options all need to be considered as we plan <br /> for growth in the region. <br /> Serving the Urban Area <br /> The Council's wastewater system, built and modified to serve regional growth and development, <br /> currently provides wastewater collection and treatment services to over 2.7 million people in 108 <br /> 17 <br />