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 It all starts underground. Groundwater flows slowly between
sand, gravel, pores and between cracks in rock in formations
called aquifers. These aquifers feed our lakes and streams, are
used for agriculture, and most importantly provide the drinking
water we need. Groundwater can become vulnerable to
contamination from above ground surface contaminants if proper
measures are not in place.
There are several ways for all of us to protect our groundwater.
First, store and properly dispose of hazardous household
substances to prevent direct contact with the ground surface. In
addition, do not dispose of unused pharmaceuticals into your
septic system (public or private) since traces of medications
have been detected in groundwater. Secondly, if you are not
served by a public sewer, properly maintain your onsite septic
system to prevent improperly treated waste from entering into
the groundwater supply. Third, properly seal unused wells since
abandoned wells can pose a safety hazard and can provide a
direct route for contaminants to enter the groundwater supply.
Prior to having a well sealed, contact your local health
department for information concerning regulations.
There is an estimated 400,000 water wells serving the household
needs of over approximately 1.3 million people in Illinois. If
you rely on your own water well, it is important to properly
maintain the well and well site to prevent groundwater
contamination. First, make sure sources of contamination (i.e.
chemicals, livestock, septic systems, etc.) are located far
enough from your well by establishing a safety zone. This set
back may commonly range from 50 feet to over 200 feet depending
on type or source of contamination. The Illinois Water Well
Construction Code has established regulations for minimum
setback distances and your local health department can provide
you with this information. Secondly, it is important to have
your well routinely inspected by a licensed water well
contractor to ensure the well is maintained and in good
condition. Defects such as a crack in the well cap or casing can
provide a direct route for surface contaminants to reach your
drinking water and groundwater.
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The water from public systems is regulated by the Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency and is routinely monitored for
contaminant levels. Private well owners, on the other hand, must
manage their own water systems and take responsibility to ensure
their water is safe. As part of this process, water well owners are
encouraged to have their water tested at least annually to monitor
bacteria, nitrates and other contaminants of local concern. Well
water test kits are available at the Logan County Department of
Public Health at a cost of $15.00. In addition, the Logan County
Department of Public Health will be providing well water nitrate
screenings at the March 28th Community Health Fair. High nitrates in
well water, if consumed by infants, pregnant or nursing women, can
pose a health risk. To have your water screened, simply bring a
sample of your well water to the environmental health display booth.
The Logan County Department of Public Health asks for your support
in doing your part to protect our groundwater in recognition of
National Groundwater Awareness Week. If you would like more
information, contact the Logan County Department of Public Health at
217-735-2317.
Source: IL Dept. of Public Health, IL Association of Groundwater
Professionals, US EPA
[Don Cavi, Public Health
Administrator, Logan County Department of Public Health]
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