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Why Every Borehole Owner Should Pay Attention To Well Water Testing

By Essie Osborn


Opening a tap at will is something that is taken for granted by most people in developed countries. Yet, in the United States alone, about fifteen per cent of people are relying on boreholes. Public water supply systems are carefully monitored to make sure that it is safe but private boreholes are not part of any formal system. Owners of boreholes have to take personal responsibility to make sure that they conduct regular well water testing.

It is imperative that owners of private boreholes have the quality of their water analyzed. In a study conducted by the Montana State University showed that almost forty per cent of the samples analyzed contained coliform bacteria and half of those samples had nitrate levels high enough to pose a serious health threat to those drinking it. If boreholes are not tested those using it may contract serious diseases.

There is a surprising number of biological, chemical and bacterial contaminants that can infect a borehole. Testing is expensive and time consuming and even the experts agree that it is not feasible to run comprehensive tests regularly. Instead, it is recommended that tests are conducted for nitrates and coliform bacteria, both of which are common and that can cause disease in both animals and humans.

The danger of contaminated boreholes should not be underestimated. Young people and those with debilitating diseases such as cancer and AIDS patients are especially vulnerable. Hepatitis, neurological disorders and dysentery are common. Diarrhea is another commonplace consequence. Borehole products can even lead to reproductive problems and many cases of neurological disorders have been linked to the use of suspect borehole products.

Boreholes are vulnerable to contamination of a wide variety of agents that can be harmful to humans. This is especially the case in areas where there is heavy industrial operation or mines. If lead pipes are used there should also be cause for concern. Even farming operations that use pesticides and other chemicals can contaminate the underground table, thereby causing harm to the users of boreholes.

It is important to test a well that is used for domestic purposes at least once a year. The frequency should be increased if activities in the area increase. This may be mining or new farms. Also, if any member of the household falls ill the borehole should be one of the first suspects. This is especially true if the color of the content changes or if there is suddenly some sediment present.

There are a number of places that can test boreholes. Owners should be careful, however. Some test facilities are not recognized and their results are suspect. It may be better to use those facilities connected to local authorities or to local academic institutions. The internet is a wonderful source of information in this regard. Advice and guidance can also be sought from other borehole owners.

A private borehole should be tested regularly. The health and wellbeing of all that use it is at stake. There are good reasons why the government is so strict on the quality of public systems. Water needs to be clean and healthy. If this is not the case, disease and worse may ensue.




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