Local officials, residents, and leaders spent countless hours exploring how to best protect the largest drinking water source in central Illinois, the Mahomet Aquifer. 

State Senator Chapin Rose led the group and last week they announced the conclusion of their work and are ready to make recommendations to lawmakers in Springfield. While not everyone likely agreed with everything, he says everyone worked well together.

Helicopter electromagnetic imaging was the biggest recommendation that came from the task force and Sen. Rose notes, while it is an expensive project, it could be something that is done in phases.

One result of a high tech image would involve partnering with those in agriculture. According to Sen. Rose, it could help give information for a better nutrient loss reduction strategy.

Additionally, old landfills pose a great threat to the Mahomet Aquifer. Sen. Rose was concerned about this from the start of the task force and says this could help find out what is in these old landfills and if there is contamination at these sites.

Sen. Rose notes the findings in the report will likely be the subject of a number of bills he is proposing come to the spring legislative session. 

Hear more from Sen. Rose on the Mahomet Aquifer Task Force later this week on Regional Radio News.