by Velma M. Smith

With deep appreciation for the many people who contributed to this undertaking by providing information and reviewing drafts.  

Thanks especially to John Sherman, formerly with the Tennessee Environmental Council, who sparked the idea for the Guide; to Kristen Godard, formerly with the W. Alton Jones Foundation, for her belief in the value of this project; to Steve Amter of Disposal Safety, who provided careful review and insight and who has worked for many years to share his knowledge of groundwater with community activists; to the staff of the North Carolina-based Agricultural Resources Center whose efforts to protect groundwater provided inspiration and especially to Eric Umstead who thoroughly and thoughtfully reviewed the draft document; to Jack Barbash of the U.S. Geological Survey who was meticulous and speedy in fact-checking and suggesting additional information; and to Larry Bohlen of Friends of the Earth who made sure that we didn't lose sight of our intended audience -- the non-technical individual ready to get involved in water quality protection.  Thanks also to Iris Amdur for helping to get the word out about the document, to Olga Corey for working on the early drafts, and to the many folks at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency who reviewed various sections of the draft and helped with many requests for information.  A special thanks is also due to Corinna Gilfillan, formerly with Friends of the Earth and currently working with the United Nations Environment Program.  Corinna's early efforts on the project -- contacting local activists and reading state plans -- set a strong foundation for completion of the work.  

Review by the above individuals does not constitute an official endorsement by any of the agencies or institutions they are associated with.  Any errors are the sole responsibility of the author.