Transcript Management of Wells for Drinking Water

Management of Wells for
Drinking Water
Possible Well Contaminants

Fertilizers

Pesticides

Septic systems

Animal feed lots

Leaking fuel storage tanks
Well Location

Locate wells uphill from:
– septic systems.
– animal feed lots.
– fertilized farm fields.
– fuel storage tanks.

Divert surface water away from the well.
Conditions Around the Well

Contamination of groundwater is more likely if
soils are:
– shallow (a few feet above bedrock).
– highly porous (sandy or gravely).

Shallow soil means contaminants do not have
far to travel to reach groundwater.

If bedrock is fractured water seeps rapidly.
This can increase contamination.
Well Age

If your well is over 20 years old, have it
inspected for defects.

Wells over 50 years old are more likely
to be contaminated due to:
– poor construction.
– thinner casings that may be cracked and
leaking lubricating oils.
Dug and Driven-Point Wells

Dug wells are:
– Large diameter holes that are usually more
than 2 feet wide.
– Shallow and generally constructed by
hand.

Driven-point wells are:
– Installed only in areas with loose soil.
– Constructed by driving lengths of pipe into
the ground.
Drilled Wells

Are common in Kentucky.

Are the least likely to become
contaminated of the three types of
wells.

Have set construction standards in
Kentucky.

Must be drilled by a certified well driller.
Well Casing and Cap

Casing should be:
– 12 inches or more above the surface and
1-2 feet above flood level.
– Inspected periodically for cracks.

Cap should be:
– Firmly attached to casing and have a vent
to allow air to enter.
– Tightly attached to the vent, with the vent
facing the ground and properly screened.
Well Inspection

Have your well inspected by a qualified
well driller every 10 to 15 years.
– Regular inspections ensure a safe water
supply.
– Detailed records of maintenance visits and
inspections can be valuable assets for
repairs.

Retain information about construction of
your well.
Water Testing

Water testing is important because:
– It monitors water quality and identifies
possible health risks.
– Most contaminants cannot be seen.

Test well water at least once a year for:
– Bacteria.
– Nitrates.
– Total dissolved solids.
– pH.
Unused Wells

Need to be closed because they:
– Provide a direct channel for waterborne
pollutants to reach groundwater.
– Pose a hazard to small children.
– Are potential health hazards to your family.
– Can be expensive to fix if problems occur.

By Kentucky law, a licensed, registered
well driller must be hired to close any
wells.