What’s in Your Water?

When we turn on our faucets in our homes and businesses, we often assume that what comes out is safe to drink.  But do we really know what might be in that glass?  Often times the answer is no, but with a little effort by the well owner, the safety of our water can be assured. 

As part of the 16th annual National Groundwater Awareness Week, well owners across the nation are reminded to test the safety of their well.   “At a minimum, private well owners should test their water annually for bacteria, nitrate, and anything of local concern”, said Cliff Treyens, National Ground Water Association public awareness director.

In southwest Montana, common contaminants include compounds that are naturally occurring such as arsenic and phosphorous, as well as those from manmade sources such as nitrogen.  A contaminant of particular concern is bacteria, especially the coliforms that are associated with fecal matter.  Wells should be tested more often than annually if:

• There is a change in the taste, odor, or appearance of the water.
• A problem occurs such as a broken well cap or a new contamination source.
• Family members or houseguests have recurrent incidents of gastrointestinal illness.
• An infant is living in the home.
• Any time the well has been affected by surface flow, related to circumstances like our recent flooding.

Should any contaminants above levels of health concern remain after proper cleaning and disinfection of the water well system, a qualified water well system professional can advise you on how to pursue treatment options. It is important to compare your drinking water lab test results to the treatment capabilities of any recommended treatment system.

As part of the Well Educated program, the Madison Conservation District carries well testing kits at the Ennis office.  These can be picked up during regular hours.  Contact the office with questions 406/682-3181. Additional information can be found at the MSU Extension website here: https://waterquality.montana.edu/well-ed/testing/index.html.

Madison Conservation District