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Aquifers are geologic formations that hold and transmit groundwater. Rain and surface water from streams, lakes and wetlands filter through the ground and are collected in an aquifer. The Abbotsford-Sumas aquifer is a unique area of northern Whatcom County and lower British Columbia that in the United States is located under the cities of Everson, Lynden, Nooksack, and Sumas and their surrounding areas.

The Abbotsford-Sumas aquifer is a shallow "surficial" aquifer; in many areas only a few feet from the surface. This makes it very vulnerable to contamination from potential pollutants on the surface. In addition, pollutants that do reach groundwater often travel from their sources to other parts of a watershed, reaching distant wells and streams.

Common sources of pollution from homes include lawn, household and automotive products as well as failing septic systems.

Most homes and businesses located within the cities in this area receive tap water from the Nooksack River. In unincorporated areas, however, the aquifer itself provides the majority of water for residential, business and agricultural use. It is necessary that we all do our part to protect water in the aquifer.