Groundwater awareness
Last week [March 6-12, 2022] was Ground Water Awareness Week
Life as we know it would be impossible without groundwater. Approximately 70% of Wisconsinites use groundwater for drinking. The Lincoln County Health Department would like to use this year’s National Groundwater Awareness Week to remind well owners to test their water every year to prevent sickness caused by bad water. “Groundwater awareness week serves an annual reminder for well owners to test, tend and treat their private water systems,” says Meghan Williams, Registered Environmental Health Specialist for Lincoln County Health Department.
One of the most important steps to ensuring a safe drinking water source is regular testing. The Wisconsin DNR recommends testing for coliform bacteria and nitrate yearly. You should also test for bacteria if you notice a change in color, odor, or taste. Even if your water looks, tastes and smells good it can contain bacteria. You may be more prone to high nitrates in your water if you live by an area where fertilizers are made or handled, by an animal feedlot, or close to a manure storage area. Nitrates are especially a concern if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or if an infant will be drinking the water. “The only way to know what is in your water is to test,” says Williams. “Spring is the perfect time to test your well water.”
Knowing what is in your drinking water allows you to take steps to protect your family.
For those with private wells:
Have your water tested each year.
Stay up to date on the cleaning and inspection of your septic system.
Keep toxins, septic tanks, and animal waste away from your well.
Get rid of chemicals and motor oil properly.
Keep your well records in a safe place.
Lincoln County Health Department has a certified water lab for testing drinking water. The lab has bacteria and nitrate testing capabilities. The cost for bacteria and nitrate testing is $20 for bacteria and $25 for nitrate. Special sampling bottles, that must be used for water testing, can be picked up at the Lincoln County Health Department, 607 N. Sales Street Suite 101, Merrill. Water samples should be brought to the lab within 24 hours of sample collection. Samples can be dropped off at the Lincoln County Health Department, Monday-Wednesday.
For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.