Abandoned and unsealed wells can contaminate your groundwater
How?
- Unused and unsealed wells can be a conduit for surface water runoff, contaminated water, and improperly disposed waste to reach your drinking water.
What can you do?
- Inspect wells regularly for cracks in the casing.
- Make sure all well covers are securely in place.
- Build up the soil so that it slopes away from the well and does not allow surface water runoff to enter.
- Do not use household chemicals or hazardous materials within 100 feet of the well.
- Hire a licensed contractor to seal all unused unsealed wells.
For more information:
Groundwater Basics
Sealing Unused Wells
Additional ways to help
What can you do to prevent contamination?
- Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly.
- Properly dispose of insecticides, pesticides, paints, used motor oil etc. Do not pour them, or any other household products, into storm drains or onto the ground.
- Sweep up litter and debris from sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots – especially around storm drains. Do not put anything into storm drains.
- Pick up pet waste and dispose of properly.
- Don't overwater your lawn.
- Use a rain barrel or plant a rain garden.
- Go to a car wash or wash your car on your lawn so that the water infiltrates into the ground.
Start implementing these practices today to protect our water and encourage your neighbors to do the same!
For more information:
MPCA Capturing Rainwater and Preventing Runoff
MN Department of Agriculture Lawn Care and Water Quality