WELL GUIDANCE AND WATER QUALITY
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Well drilling permits and water rights are administered by the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR). Public water systems are tested regularly, but private water systems (and unregulated community systems) have no regulations associated with testing them. Private water sources can be required to be tested under other regulations or requirements if the water is being used for small daycares, small food processors, bottled water plants, foster/care homes, and house sales if required by lender or buyer.
In Idaho, private well owners are responsible for ensuring their water is safe to drink. All private well owners should test their drinking water to ensure that it is safe to drink and regularly maintain their wellhead. Private wells may have elevated levels of contamination from bacteria, naturally occurring, or synthetic chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Use the resources below to find out what to test for, how often to test, and how to keep your water safe.
Testing Well Water for Contaminants
While your water may appear safe, harmful levels of contaminants occur at such low concentrations that they often cannot be tasted, seen, or smelled. This means regular testing and maintenance are necessary to protect the health of your family. You should test your well water once a year for bacteria and nitrates.
Nitrate Fact Sheet – Nov 2023
IDHW – Groundwater Quality Near Me Map – Use the map above to help determine what contaminants for which to test.
If undesirable levels of contaminants show up in your water, contact The Department of Health and Welfare’s Environmental Health program at radon@dhw.idaho.gov or 1-800-445-8647 to determine the best method to fix the problem and if you have questions about your well water testing results.
IDHW – Drinking Water – Resources on common contaminants and how to take a water sample for testing.
IDHW – Arsenic in Your Well Water
IDHW – Bacteria in Your Well Water
IDHW – Fluoride in Your Well Water
IDHW – Nitrate in Your Well Water
IDHW – Uranium in Your Well Water
Private Well Guidance and Drinking Water Resources
Idaho Private Well Owner’s Brochure – Nov 2023
Is My Well Water Safe? – Nov 2023
Private Water Sample – Nov 2023
Private Well Guidance – Nov 2023
AGWT – American Ground Water Trust
CDC – Private Well Resources
CDC – Resources for Household Water Treatment
DEQ – How to Collect a Water Sample
DEQ – Need additional help from a licensed professional? Search for a licensed operator here
GIS – Ground Water Quality Near Me
IDHW – Drinking Water Resources
IDHW – Idaho Laboratories and Testing
The Groundwater Foundation
The Private Well Class
Private Well Sampling and Testing
CDH provides drinking water quality testing and mortgage survey inspections of private wells and septic systems.
- Private Water Sample
- Mortgage Survey
Water Quality Testing Resources:
- Water Sample Collection – $130
- Coliform Test – $19
- Fluoride Test – $20
- Nitrate Test – $20
- Nitrite Test – $20
- Arsenic Test – $22
Well Disinfection Information
Disinfection is one process of killing or inactivating microorganisms to make water safe for drinking. Disinfection can also eliminate nuisance bacteria that can cause unpleasant tastes and odors.
Well Disinfection – Nov 2023
Well Decontamination Sheet – Dec 2023
AGWT – Well Disinfection
CDC – Disinfecting Wells After a Disaster
CONTACT
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Environmental Health
208-327-7499
Ada & Boise Counties 208-375-7499
Elmore County 208-587-4407
Valley County 208-634-7194