Protecting Groundwater Resources: The Importance of Well Water Testing

Jan 17

A natural resource that is essential for both human consumption and the health of our environment, groundwater provides drinkable well water to millions of people while also supporting our most precious ecosystems.

What is Groundwater?

Groundwater is the water hosted under property surfaces between soil and rock. While not as susceptible to contamination as surface water bodies such as ponds and lakes, groundwater can become contaminated by pollutants.

Why is Well Water Testing Important?

Well water testing is crucial as it ensures the safety and quality of your drinking water.

There are four major types of contamination that can impact the groundwater from which well structures withdraw.

Bacterial Contamination

This is the type of water contamination you’ve most likely heard about on the news. Bacterial groundwater contamination can cause gastrointestinal illnesses in residents, with potential pathogens including Salmonella and E. coli.

Viral Contamination

Characterized by various human symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues and even dehydration, viruses that can contaminate groundwater include Norovirus, Rotavirus, Enterovirus and Hepatitis A.

Chemical Contamination

This category of contamination is dominated in most municipalities by the presence of common pesticides and herbicides as well as industrial solvents.

Heavy Metal Contamination

This type of groundwater contamination is defined by elevated levels of elements such as lead, arsenic, mercury, zinc, chromium and copper.

Benefits of Well Water Testing

Regular monitoring and well water testing via C.E.C. Analytics’ automatic water samplers enable municipalities to identify potential contaminants of emerging concern early on. This allows for timely action and the prevention of potential health risks to people and the environment.

By following a proper water sampling regimen, residents and the environment are protected, communities avoid fines for non-compliance with water quality regulations and market values of properties go unscathed.

How Often Should Well Water Be Tested?

The frequency of well water testing can depend on variables including how old your well is (higher age = higher susceptibility), property history, changes in the usage of the land, geology (type of rocks, type of soil) and how recently or frequently impactful events have taken place such as flooding or construction.

Autosampling technologies, such as that offered by C.E.C. Analytics, allow for the collection of samples on a pre-determined schedule, giving exactly the sample you need when you need it.

Partner with C.E.C. Analytics, A Trusted Leader in Water Sampling and Analysis.

At C.E.C. Analytics, we are committed to providing expert water sampling and analysis services to help communities everywhere make scientifically informed, proactive decisions around community health through water surveillance, whether that community is a city, remote camp, building, or First Nations community.

With our extensive experience and cutting-edge technology, we can help you navigate the complex world of water monitoring, sampling and analysis.

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