Don’t Forget to Test Your Well Water This Spring

Perth County – When was the last time you tested your well water? Are you sure your well water is safe to drink? Testing your well water is the best way to know if your water system is home to harmful bacteria and should be tested at least three times per year (preferably in the spring, summer and fall).

World Water Day is Saturday, March 22. The Perth District Health Unit is encouraging private well owners to test their drinking water. “With spring conditions approaching, it is an important time to be testing your drinking water,” says Jennette Kidnie, Public Health Inspector.

“Even if people think their water is fine, water quality can change,” says Kidnie. “Testing your well water three times a year will keep you up-to-date on the quality of your drinking water and provide an early warning signal to potential problems.”

Private well owners in Perth County can have their well water tested for bacteria free of charge. Water testing kits are available at the locations listed below and at local municipal offices. Take the sample just before you drop it off at one of the following locations:
Perth District Health Unit, 653 West Gore St., Stratford: Mon. to Thurs., 8:30am – 4:30pm, Fri. 8:30am – 11:30am.
Knollcrest Lodge (front desk), 50 William St., Milverton: Mon. to Thurs., 8:30am – 4:30pm.
Listowel Memorial Hospital (outpatients lab), 255 Elizabeth St E., Listowel: Mon. to Fri., 8:30am – 3:30pm.

Well owners who wish to have their water supply tested for fluoride, nitrates, nitrites or pesticides can do so through a private accredited laboratory for a fee.

Perth County residents are encouraged to call the Health Unit if they have questions about their drinking water or have a poor result after testing their well water. The Health Unit can provide information about properly maintaining your well, how to reduce risks of contamination and treatment options.

For more information, call the Perth District Health Unit’s Health Line at 519-271-7600 ext 267. Listowel area residents call 1-877-271-7348 ext 267. Or visit www.pdhu.on.ca.

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