WELL WATER TESTING
WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER?
COLIFORMS
Coliform bacteria are present in the digestive tracts of both animals and humans and are present in their wastes. It can also be present on plants and soil material which runs the risk of being absorbed into ground and well water.
Most coliform bacteria aren’t harmful to humans, however, there are some strains of E. Coli that can cause serious illness. The only way to know if your drinking water is safe is to test it.
NITRATES
Nitrates form naturally in surface and groundwater through the combination of nitrogen and oxygen. While nitrogen is essential for all living things, it can be dangerous at high levels through various means and can enter your well due to improper well construction, overuse of fertilizers, or improper disposal of human and/or animal wastes.
Sources of nitrates that enter your well include fertilizers, septic systems, animal feedlots, industrial waste, and food processing waste. Like coliforms, the only way to know if your drinking water is safe is to have it tested.