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It is important for a private well owner to know the quality of their well water. The only way to know this is to have the water tested. The responsibility of testing a private drinking water supply lies on the well owner. Luckily, collecting a water sample for most testing can be done by the homeowner. Just contact one of the many certified labs in Montana for water testing to find out what procedures you need to follow, sample bottles you will need, etc. Sample bottles for bacteria testing can also be obtained for the Gallatin Local Water Quality District free of charge.
What To Test For
It is recommended that you test your water on an annual basis for coliform bacteria and nitrates.
A more comprehensive test to categorize your overall water quality that includes parameters such as pH and hardness, specific conductivity and metals (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, manganese, iron, copper, lead and arsenic) can be done every five years.
A pesticide/herbicide screening test may be recommended if you live in an area with a history of heavy pesticide or herbicide use. Because this test is usually done as a "screen", the level of detection for the test may not be sensitive enough to pick-up a specific problem. If you know the name of the pesticide or herbicide you are concerned about, a test can usually be run to analyze for it specifically. Discuss these issues directly with the lab you plan to have analyze your water sample.
If you live in an area with known high levels of arsenic or lead, you may want to test for this parameter on a yearly basis rather than every 5 years.
If you notice a change in taste, odor or color in your well water, consider having your water tested for metals.
If you have your well serviced or if there has been a flood in your area you should consider having your water tested for coliform bacteria and nitrates.
For more information about water testing, contact the Gallatin Local Water Quality District at 582-3148 or email us.
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