By ETHAN SHOREY
NORTH SMITHFIELD – Members of the Groundwater Protection Committee are inviting town residents to an open house event to learn about a range of water-related topics important to everyone.
Topics to be discussed include well water testing, conservation, and superfund sites.
The open house will take place in the North Smithfield Middle School cafeteria on Sept. 14, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The event showcases representatives from the United States Environmental Protection Agency Superfund program, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Superfund/DoD Program, the Rhode Island Department of Health, the University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension, and more.
“The GPC encourages residents to bring water-related questions as part of their commitment to educating the community and promoting public interest in groundwater protection,” states a release.
Member Beth Newberry said one of the things that has created a successful committee was that Cynthia Roberts, the former chairperson, led them in strategic planning.
“It has been very valuable to have that roadmap,” she said.
Committee members met on July 13 and covered numerous topics, including upcoming events.
Member Sarah Levesque told The Local Insider that in line with their 2026 strategic priorities, the GPC has been busy coordinating educational events such as the Sept. 14 open house, an annual well testing event, and a booth at the Great Pumpkin Festival.
At the July meeting, they also spoke with Chief David Chartier about RIDOH remediation at the Primrose Fire Station, as well as a RIDOH hearing on the North Smithfield High School water filtration system, where the GPC attended to address concerns about the source of contamination.
Several members of the public attended that meeting and expressed interest in joining, and also asked for guidance on an Eagle Scout project.
