Most people in rural Canada rely on wells to provide their homes and farms with safe water. Whether it be for drinking, washing, or watering, wells are important. Monitoring your water quality by having it tested regularly is an important part of maintaining a safe, reliable source.
If you live in rural Canada and have an underground well to provide water, chances are you also have an underground sewage system. Contamination of underground water sources by sewage usually occurs from a ruptured septic tank or underground sewage lines. Bacteria and waste leach through the soil to contaminate underground aquifers and running water. Outhouses also can be dangerous to have near wells, as waste is untreated and concentrated in a big hole. However, this kind of contaminate is mitigated if water sources are beneath nonporous rocks and protected from seepage above.
Rotting vegetation, deal animals, pesticides and fertilizers can also be problematic for well owners by seepage into the earth around a well.
Another danger that can arise are mineral impurities. The surrounding rock of where a well is located may contain heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, or other minerals such as manganese or rock salts. These various compounds may be toxic if continuously ingested, and most minerals also impart an unpleasant odor or taste to well water. (see blog post- "What's that smell" for more info on minerals and unpleasant odors, tastes, or stains)
The best way to ensure your well is reliable and safe is regular testing, and regular treatment.
Do you test your well often? If not, will you now?
Sources:
Water Quality Testing
Well Water Dangers
www.greenshock.ca
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