Private wells can provide a clean, safe source of water if they are properly located, built, and maintained. As a private well owner, it is your responsibility to make sure that your water is safe. Septic systems, animal waste, farm chemicals, flooding and naturally-occurring chemicals, such as arsenic, can contaminate your well. High levels of contamination can put you and your family's health at risk. Make sure your well water is safe by testing it and treating it, if necessary.
Idaho well water may contain several harmful contaminants. The table below shows typical contaminants, how often you should test your well water for them, and treatment levels. If you live in an agricultural area and/or you have underground tanks with petroleum, it is recommended that you also test your well water for pesticides and petroleum. You should also get your water tested if it tastes, smells, or looks strange. Contact your local Public Health District for more information about testing your private well.
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Type of Contaminant
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When to Test
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When to Treat
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Bacteria
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Once a year
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Treat any amount
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Nitrate
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Once a year
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If 10 mg/L or higher
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Nitrite
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Once a year
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If 1 mg/L or higher
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Arsenic
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Once every 3 to 5 years
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If 0.01 mg/L or higher
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Uranium
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Once every 3 to 5 years
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If 30 µ/L or higher
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Fluoride
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Once every 3 to 5 years
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If 4 mg/L or higher
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mg/L = milligrams per liter of water
µg/L = micrograms per liter of water