After heavy storms made landfall in the southern and eastern United States last week, NGWA is urging all private well owners to be aware of potential contamination of their wells due to floodwaters.
NGWA’s WellOwner.org provides crucial information to water well owners on best practices to protect their systems before and after storms. Utilizing the knowledge of the industry’s top professionals, the site offers step-by-step instructions on maintenance procedures and a database of certified NGWA contractors for testing and repairs.
The flooding of water well systems can lead to permanent system damage and the possibility of water contamination. Exposure to E. coli, coliform, and other pathogenic microbes from human and animal fecal matter have occurred following major flooding events.
“Having a trusted resource on flooding procedures is crucial to keeping your water well safe and operational after a storm,” said Ronnie Hensley, a former NGWA Board of Directors member and director of engineered water at Gicon Pumps and Equipment Inc. in Abernathy, Texas. “The steps laid out by NGWA will help well owners keep their water safe and potentially save them thousands of dollars in repairs.”
Private wells that are susceptible to flooding or potential contamination include:
- Wells that are older or completed in areas now designated as floodplains
- Wells in which the casing is not finished above the high-water level
- Wells not adequately capped or sealed, or older wells with shallow grout or an insufficient surface seal
- Wells in areas structurally unstable, or where previous erosion or subsidence has compromised the structure and landform.
NGWA urges all well owners who are seeking more information on water well safety and maintenance to visit WellOwner.org for more details on how to test, tend, and treat your water well system.
WellOwner.org is supported by a grant from the Rural Community Assistance Partnership and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.