By RFD Radio Network
SPRINGFIELD – If you get your water from your own well, you are on your own to make sure the water is safe.
Contamination can come from bacteria, or even chemicals in the groundwater. Many wells in Illinois have arsenic from groundwater. According to Steve Wilson with the Illinois State Water Survey, you can have a well assessment done to identify any possible issues.
“Someone who is qualified can come and look at your well,” Wilson said. “They take a look at what’s going on, look at the well log and try to understand what vulnerabilities you might have.”
Old dug wells and shallow wells are two types that Wilson said are most susceptible to contamination. The ISWS also offers a free online course in private well management.
“People can sign up online and it sends them ten lessons,” said Wilson. “It’s ten weeks, one lesson each week. It’s self paced and teaches you what you really need to know and what you should know about your well.”
For well testing, Wilson urges residents to contact the Illinois State Water Survey for groundwater chemistry. For tests of potential bacterial contamination, you can contact your local County Health Department.
