Opening a tap at will is something that is taken for granted by most people in developed countries. Yet, in the United States alone, about fifteen per cent of people are relying on boreholes. Public water supply systems are carefully monitored to make sure that it is safe but private boreholes are not part of any formal system. Owners of boreholes have to take personal responsibility to make sure that they conduct regular well water testing.
It is imperative that owners of private boreholes have the quality of their water analyzed. In a study conducted by the Montana State University showed that almost forty per cent of the samples analyzed contained coliform bacteria and half of those samples had nitrate levels high enough to pose a serious health threat to those drinking it. If boreholes are not tested those using it may contract serious diseases.
It is not really feasible to test regularly for all the various contaminants that can be found in privately owned boreholes. The tests are expensive. Experts advise that it is necessary to test for coliform bacteria and nitrates, however. Both of these are common contaminants and they can pose a threat to human health. Tests should also be conducted for the presence of dissolved solids, but this contaminant is mostly cosmetic.
There are a number of serious diseases that can be contracted from utilizing private boreholes. Gastrointestinal illnesses are common but hepatitis, diarrhea and dysentery is also a great danger. There may even be reproductive consequences and it is especially young people that are in danger of contracting life threatening conditions. People undergoing drastic treatments such as chemotherapy are also specifically vulnerable.
Boreholes can be infected from many different sources. The underground table can easily be contaminated by mining and manufacturing operations. Lead piping can also be the culprit. Farming operations in the vicinity can cause chemicals and pesticides to leak into the underground table too. Sewage systems are of particular concern because they often seep and this may contaminate boreholes in a serious way.
It is important to test a well that is used for domestic purposes at least once a year. The frequency should be increased if activities in the area increase. This may be mining or new farms. Also, if any member of the household falls ill the borehole should be one of the first suspects. This is especially true if the color of the content changes or if there is suddenly some sediment present.
There are a number of places that can test boreholes. Owners should be careful, however. Some test facilities are not recognized and their results are suspect. It may be better to use those facilities connected to local authorities or to local academic institutions. The internet is a wonderful source of information in this regard. Advice and guidance can also be sought from other borehole owners.
Private borehole owners should take the quality and safety of their water seriously. It is vital to have it tested from time to time and to be aware of changes in the color and consistency. If this is not done, disease and discomfort are almost sure to result.
It is imperative that owners of private boreholes have the quality of their water analyzed. In a study conducted by the Montana State University showed that almost forty per cent of the samples analyzed contained coliform bacteria and half of those samples had nitrate levels high enough to pose a serious health threat to those drinking it. If boreholes are not tested those using it may contract serious diseases.
It is not really feasible to test regularly for all the various contaminants that can be found in privately owned boreholes. The tests are expensive. Experts advise that it is necessary to test for coliform bacteria and nitrates, however. Both of these are common contaminants and they can pose a threat to human health. Tests should also be conducted for the presence of dissolved solids, but this contaminant is mostly cosmetic.
There are a number of serious diseases that can be contracted from utilizing private boreholes. Gastrointestinal illnesses are common but hepatitis, diarrhea and dysentery is also a great danger. There may even be reproductive consequences and it is especially young people that are in danger of contracting life threatening conditions. People undergoing drastic treatments such as chemotherapy are also specifically vulnerable.
Boreholes can be infected from many different sources. The underground table can easily be contaminated by mining and manufacturing operations. Lead piping can also be the culprit. Farming operations in the vicinity can cause chemicals and pesticides to leak into the underground table too. Sewage systems are of particular concern because they often seep and this may contaminate boreholes in a serious way.
It is important to test a well that is used for domestic purposes at least once a year. The frequency should be increased if activities in the area increase. This may be mining or new farms. Also, if any member of the household falls ill the borehole should be one of the first suspects. This is especially true if the color of the content changes or if there is suddenly some sediment present.
There are a number of places that can test boreholes. Owners should be careful, however. Some test facilities are not recognized and their results are suspect. It may be better to use those facilities connected to local authorities or to local academic institutions. The internet is a wonderful source of information in this regard. Advice and guidance can also be sought from other borehole owners.
Private borehole owners should take the quality and safety of their water seriously. It is vital to have it tested from time to time and to be aware of changes in the color and consistency. If this is not done, disease and discomfort are almost sure to result.
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