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| Groundwater awareness week March 7-13 |
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| Written by Times-Journal |
| Friday, 26 February 2010 14:33 |
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National Groundwater Awareness Week, March 7 – 13, is a great time to think about groundwater, evaluate the status of your own water system, and consider having your well water tested. Most Calumet County residents receive groundwater as their source of drinking water. Wisconsin is considered a water rich state. However, most people think about lakes and rivers when hearing that statement. Known as “Wisconsin’s Buried Treasure”, the 1.2 quadrillion gallons of water below the surface of Wisconsin is used by three-fourths of Wisconsin residents as their drinking water source. Over 1,000 million gallons of water is pumped per day in Wisconsin. Even though there is a lot of water, not all of the water is safe to drink or use. Threats to groundwater come from all kinds of pollutants and sources. In Calumet County, 48% of the samples taken from private wells test unsafe for bacteria and/or nitrates. These pollutants can come from a variety land use practices, including land application of wastes, old and unused wells, and failing septic systems. Nitrates, the most common pollutant found in rural wells, can come from a variety of sources including fertilizers, animal wastes, and human waste. A well that tests over 10 parts per million is considered unsafe for pregnant women and infants to drink. However, some wells in Calumet County have tested well over 20 parts per million, levels that may have affects on adults and livestock. It is recommended that you sample your well for nitrates at least once every 2 to 3 years; annually if you have tested unsafe in the past. The most commonly tested pollutant is coliform bacteria. The presence of coliform bacteria in well water indicates that there may be other contaminants present, including E.coli and other bacteria, viruses, or pesticides. It is recommended all that private well owners test their drinking water annually for coliform bacteria regardless of taste or odor. The Calumet County Land and Water Conservation Department has bottles available to sample for coliform bacteria and nitrates for a small fee ($3 deposit plus the cost of test and shipping). A bottle can be picked up in the office located at the Calumet County Courthouse, room 232. Staff can also provide you with information regarding additional testing, local private testing labs, or water treatment option and can be contacted at (920) 849-1444. 
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