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Take time to schedule a check-up of your wellFarmers, ranchers and others should take the time to schedule a checkup of their water wells and make sure any necessary maintenance is performed as National Ground Water Awareness Week approaches, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Ground Water Association. Set for March 9 to 15, National Ground Water Awareness Week is a good time for well owners and others who get their water from wells to recognize that regular checks by certified or licensed water well contractors are necessary to keep well water flowing properly and safely. "A clean, clear glass of cold water is something most Americans tend to take for granted," AFBF President Bob Stallman said. "That is, until it's not available, or it's not safe to consume or use in our daily lives. We think about water all the time on those occasions." Americans who receive their water from municipal water systems generally feel confident trained employees are monitoring water conditions regularly and taking steps to make water supplies useable. But people who depend on well water because they live in the country or other areas not served by water systems should take their own precautions, Stallman said. That's why AFBF and the NGWA are teaming up again this year to promote the steps well users should take to ensure clean, safe water. "Folks who use well water should have a certified or licensed water well system contractor conduct a flow test, check water levels and test for certain types of bacteria, nitrates and anything of local concern," Cliff Treyens, NGWA public awareness director, said. In addition, homeowners and other individuals need to be aware of the dangers posed by abandoned wells and keep hazardous chemicals, septic systems and kennels or livestock operations at least 50 feet away from their wells. Treyens also said it's important to keep an eye on the cap or cover that seals a well to ensure it is securely attached and prevents insects, rodents and other pests from entering. These tips and other resources, such as locating an NGWA certified- or member-contractor, may be found on a special website (www.wellowner.org) the NGWA designed just for well owners. The website also explains the hydrologic cycle and the use of geothermal energy for home heating and cooling, and it provides videos of well-construction methods. There even is a link to ground water-related games for children. 3/10/08 Date: 3/4/08
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