Programs

Safe Drinking Water

Do You Get Your Drinking Water from a Private Well?

Clean water starts with knowing what’s in it!

Regular testing ensures your water is safe and helps identify potential issues before they become serious health risks. Thanks to the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, Horizon Public Health has received grant funding to support the treatment of contaminants in private wells. This program helps address common concerns, including: arsenic, coliform bacteria, lead, manganese, and nitrate.

Take the first step. Get a well water test kit for $91.50 at 50% off. While supplies last.

To purchase a kit contact Whitney at 320.762.3071 or email whitneyl@horizonphmn.gov

💧Funding for Treatment Systems Available 💧

Thanks to funding from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, Horizon Public Health can help provide financial assistance for well water treatment systems that address contaminants commonly found in private wells, including:
✔️ Arsenic
✔️ Coliform bacteria
✔️ Lead
✔️ Manganese
✔️ Nitrate

Testing 5 Contaminants

As a private well owner, you are responsible for regularly testing your well water. Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends testing for coliform bacteria, nitrate, arsenic, lead and manganese.

For more information about water quality and testing visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s website:

Well Water Quality and Testing (MDH Link)

Arsenic

Source: Found naturally in rocks and soil.
Health Risk: Long-term exposure can increase the risk of cancer and other serious health problems.

Arsenic in Well Water (MDH link)

Coliform Bacteria

Source: Comes from human or animal waste.
Health Risk: Can cause stomach issues like diarrhea, cramps, and vomiting.

Bacteria Safety of Well Water (MDH Link)

Lead

Source: Can leach from old plumbing or occur naturally.
Health Risk: Especially harmful to children, causing developmental and learning issues.

Lead in Well Water (MDH Link)

Manganese

Source: Naturally present in groundwater.
Health Risk: High levels can affect brain development, especially in infants.

Manganese in Drinking Water (MDH Link)

Nitrate

Source: Comes from fertilizers, septic systems, or animal waste.
Health Risk: Can cause “blue baby syndrome” in infants and long-term health issues in adults.

Nitrate in Well Water (MDH Link)