Private Individual Wells
A private well uses ground water as its water source. Private water supply quality is unregulated. Owners of individual water systems are responsible for ensuring that their water is safe from contaminants. Whether you are planning a well, are a new well owner, or have owned a well for a long time, knowing the basics about water wells is important and can help you make sound decisions about your water well system. Some basics include:
Understanding that proper well construction and continued maintenance are the keys to a safe water supply.
At a minimum, it is recommended that you check your well every spring to make sure there are no mechanical problems.
Your well should be tested once each year for total coliform bacteria and nitrates. If you suspect other contaminants, you should test for those as well. Well test kits are available at the Gallatin Local Water Quality District.
ย You should also have your well tested if:
- There are known problems with well water in your area.
- You have experienced problems near your well (i.e., flooding, land disturbances, and nearby waste disposal sites).
- You replace or repair any part of your well system.
- You notice a change in water quality (i.e., taste, color, odor).
- There is future development planned in your vicinity.