As a private well owner, it is your responsibility to have your water tested for nitrates, arsenic, and other contaminants. Nitrates are the most common contaminant in Minnesota’s groundwater. Since you can’t taste or see them, many people are unaware that they may be in their drinking water.

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At a minimum, private wells should be tested annually for coliform bacteria and every other year for nitrates. If nitrates have previously been detected at a level greater than 3 parts per million, the well should be tested for nitrates every year. Every private well should be tested at least once during its lifetime to determine if arsenic is present and at what levels.

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The Stearns County SWCD, in partnership with the Minnesota Groundwater Association (MNGWA) and the Minnesota Well Owners Organization (MNWOO), provides free nitrate and chloride water screenings for households that rely on private wells. Sign up to join our private well screening mailing list to be notified of future screening events.