The Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will be co-hosting a free nitrate water-screening event on Thursday, August 31 from 1PM to 7PM at the Maine Prairie Township Hall (7551 Dellwood Rd, Kimball, MN 55353). Nitrates are the most common contaminant in Minnesota’s groundwater. Since you can’t taste it or see it, many people are not aware it is in their water.
Much of the nitrate in our environment comes from decomposition of plants and animal wastes. People also add nitrate to the environment in the form of fertilizers. Elevated nitrate levels in groundwater are often caused by run-off from barnyards or feedlots, excessive use of fertilizer (agricultural and residential) or septic systems.
“Rainfall and land management techniques can contribute to the presence of nitrate in groundwater,” stated SWCD Administrator Dennis Fuchs. “As more water moves through the soil profile, it flushes out excess nutrients into the water table. Areas with sandy soils are more susceptible to nutrient loss with increased rainfall.”
Too much nitrate in drinking water poses a risk to infants under six months of age, pregnant women, people with reduced stomach acidity, and people with certain blood disorders may also be susceptible to nitrate induced methemoglobinemia. Some research has suggested that nitrate may also play a role in the development of some cancers.
To keep your drinking water safe, have your well water tested annually for nitrate. Continue to properly manage nitrate sources near your well. Small things like getting a compliance inspection on your sewage treatment system, routinely pumping your septic tank, and applying fertilizer to your lawn when it is actively growing will help keep you and your family safe.
The Minnesota Department of Health has reported that nitrate contamination of a well is often regarded as a first sign of deteriorating groundwater quality, accentuating the importance of annual nitrate testing.
Private Well Nitrate Water Screening Event:
Date: Thursday, August 31, 2023
Time: 1:00PM – 7:00PM
Location: Maine Prairie Township Hall (7551 Dellwood Rd, Kimball, MN 55353)
Water samples should be collected on the cold side of your kitchen sink. Collect about 1 quart of water in a clean container. Collect samples no more than 24 hours before the event. Keep water cool. If your house uses water treatment equipment other than a softener, it is recommended to take a sample before and after to determine if your system is working properly, label sample container accordingly. Please bring pictures of your water treatment equipment as groundwater professionals will be on site to discuss water screening results and provide guidance on water treatment equipment.
This event is in coordination with the Minnesota Well Owners Organization, Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Groundwater Association, Traut Wells, Wright Soil and Water Conservation District, and Meeker County Soil and Water Conservation District.
For more information on proper sample collection or nitrate water testing options, contact the Stearns County SWCD at (320) 251-7800 ext. 3 or visit the website at: www.StearnsCountySWCD.net/privatewell.
Comments