Well contractors are required to have a water sample tested for bacteria and nitrate when a new well is constructed; after that homeowners are responsible for periodic well testing as follows:
Test annually for Coliform Bacteria.
Test every other year for Nitrate. Test more frequently if nitrate has been previously identified. Drinking water over the public health safety limit of 10 mg/L of nitrate-nitrogen may be harmful for infants under the age of six months, and can cause “blue baby syndrome,” a condition that interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.
Test once or twice for Arsenic and Lead. Northeast Crow Wing County has high naturally occurring arsenic levels in the soil and has a high occurrence of arsenic in wells.
Test the water annually if you are a pregnant women or anticipate getting pregnant, or if infants will be drinking the water.
Test the water if there is a change in taste, odor, or appearance.
For more information about private wells, see Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The MDH publishes a list of certified testing laboratories in the state.
