Private Drinking Water Wells

Well water is never pure. Water can contain naturally occurring and introduced contaminants. Nuisance properties and potential health effects associated with a water source are directly related to the contaminants present and their concentrations. Potential sources of contamination should be identified and managed to reduce risk to the water supply. Although not required by federal or state regulations, testing a private water supply annually for bacteria and nitrate, and as needed for other suspected contaminants is recommended. Water quality problems might be managed by repairing an existing well, removing the source of contamination, drilling a new well, or utilizing appropriate water treatment.