Illinois residents who tap into the earth's liquid bounty via private wells are being urged by health officials to remain vigilant about water quality. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) have recently reminded folks to regularly inspect and test their private wells to avoid contamination. Though most such wells, when properly drilled and maintained, can safely provide water, the lack of routine checks can unknowingly invite harmful pollutants into a family's water supply.
According to a report issued by IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra, "Testing for contaminants is a simple and effective way to ensure that private wells are safe and do not pose a health risk." He encourages all private well owners to take necessary precautions to safeguard their households. Such contaminants can range from bacteria and nitrates to metals and insidious 'forever chemicals' like PFAS, which have been linked to an array of health issues including cancer.
Officials pinpoint the primary culprits of well contamination as shoddy construction, inadequate maintenance, or accidental releases into the water’s aquifer. The deceptive nature of these pollutants is that they're often imperceptible—beyond the capabilities of taste, sight, or smell. ISWS groundwater hydrologist Steven Wilson stated, "Being informed by understanding how your good works, where your water comes from, and how to take care of your water system is the best way to protect your family’s drinking water and health."
Local health departments can arm well owners with affordable test kits for bacteria and nitrate/nitrite, crucial tests that well owners should carry out annually. For other substances like metals, which should be tested every three years, and more specialized screening for VOCs and pesticides, commercial laboratories are the go-to. And should those pesky forever chemicals be lurking near your well, IDPH is on deck to help you figure out if pricier testing might be in order. If contaminants are found, the department will interpret the results and recommend treatment options, all free of charge.
Not to be overlooked is the maintenance beyond testing. IDPH advises that even in the absence of detected contaminants, well inspections should happen yearly. This is to ensure everything remains sealed and free of debris. Well-owners should also be cautious of what goes down their drains and into their septic systems. Grease, household chemicals, and anything other than toilet paper should be kept out of the septic system, which needs a pump out every three to five years to stay functional. Plus, keeping good records, emergency instructions, and contact numbers for local health officials and drilling contractors is a smart move for every responsible well owner.
To bolster the arsenal of knowledge for well owners, ISWS promotes the Private Well Class program—a free, self-paced online education to get the uninitiated or even the seasoned well owner up to speed on best practices. Interested parties can enroll by contacting the program directly through email or phone.
