WELL OWNERS ENCOURAGED TO HAVE WATER SAMPLED ANNUALLY

(Salisbury, MD) – March 11 – 17, 2012 is National Ground Water Awareness Week and Wicomico County environmental health officials are reminding residents of the importance of having their well water sampled annually. Of the Wicomico County’s water, 100 percent comes from ground water. “While most groundwater is suitable for human consumption, the potential still exists for contaminants, such as nitrates, to exist.” said Dennis DiCintio, Environmental Health Director for Wicomico County Health Department. Ground water contaminants sometimes occur naturally in the environment, such as arsenic and radon. However, most often it is the result of human activities, such as incorrect use of fertilizers and pesticides; poorly sited, constructed or maintained septic systems; improper disposal or storage of wastes; and chemical spills at industrial sites.

“Having your well sampled annually is essential in knowing your water quality. Spring is the perfect time to have your water sampled and tested,” said DiCintio. “Every drop of water we use, stems from groundwater. As we enter the season of peak water use, it's important to ensure our well is functioning correctly. It is also essential to know if our water quality has changed,” he added. The Health Department also recommends testing water when there is a change in taste, odor, appearance, if residents in the household become pregnant, or when the well system is serviced.

Health Department officials recommend the following preventative measures to help homeowners safeguard their community’s water quality:

· Keep hazardous chemicals, such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides, and motor oil far away from the well, and maintain a "clean" zone of at least 50 feet between well and any kennels and livestock operations.

· Maintain proper separation between well and buildings, waste systems, and chemical storage areas.

· Periodically check the well cover or well cap on top of the casing (well) to ensure it is in good repair and securely attached. Its seal should keep out insects and rodents. The top of the well should be at least one foot above the ground.

· Slope the ground away from your well for proper drainage. Do not pile snow, leaves, or other materials around your well.

· Be careful never to hit the casing with a lawn mower or vehicle, or strike it with any force.

· Maintain your septic system. Improperly functioning septic systems are a major cause of well contamination.

· Find any old wells on your property and have them abandoned and sealed by a licensed well driller.

· Consult with a qualified well inspector to ensure your well is problem free.

· Properly dispose hazardous household wastes. Check the labels and follow directions.

· When your well has reached its serviceable life (usually 20 or more years), have a licensed or certified water well driller and pump installer decommission the existing well and construct a new well.

· Keep accurate records of well maintenance.

WELLOWNER.ORG is a resource for well owners, providing information on well maintenance and water quality. For questions, to schedule a water sample, or to inquire about related fees, county residents may call the Wicomico County Health Department Environmental Health Division at (410) 546-4446.