Groundwater is one of our most important resources and is essential to the health and well-being of residents and the environment. We all must do our part to protect this valuable resource; and for well owners, that means making sure wells are in good working order.
As with most things, preventative maintenance is usually less costly than emergency maintenance, and a water well is certainly no exception.
A routine check of your well by a qualified contractor can prolong the life of your well and is the best way to ensure problem-free service and high quality water. The check may include an equipment inspection to assure it is sanitary and meets local code, as well as a test of your water for coliform bacteria and nitrates, and anything else of concern.
MMDHD also recommends that well owners:
· Keep hazardous chemicals, such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides, and motor oil far away from your well, and maintain a “clean” zone of at least 50 feet between your well and any kennels and livestock operations.
· Maintain proper separation between your well and buildings, waste systems, and chemical storage areas.
· Periodically check the well cover or well cap on top of the casing (well) to ensure it is in good repair and securely attached. The seal should keep out insects and rodents.
· Test their water whenever there is a change in taste, odor, or appearance, or when the system is serviced.
Take the Groundwater Protection Pledge!
· Properly store hazardous household substances in secure containers
· Mix hazardous household substances over concrete or asphalt where they can be cleaned up or absorbed
· Dispose of hazardous household wastes at an appropriate waste disposal facility
· Do not put medications or hazardous household wastes down the drain or in the toilet
· If you own a septic system, service it according to local health department recommendations
· If you have a water well, get a yearly maintenance check
For more information, please visit the National Groundwater Association’s website at www.ngwa.org.