The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) advised on Apr. 16 that private well owners should test their drinking water following recent heavy rainfall and flooding across the state. The department said these weather events can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into private wells, potentially affecting water quality.
Floodwaters and runoff may carry pollutants that threaten the safety of private water supplies, especially for wells located in pits, basements, or low-lying areas. The DNR said well owners who notice changes in taste, color, or sediment levels after storms should assume contamination has occurred. They recommend stopping consumption of the water immediately, using an alternative safe source, disinfecting the well—preferably by a licensed professional—and testing the water before resuming use.
The DNR’s Recommendations for Private Wells Inundated by Flooding webpage provides information on how to properly test and disinfect wells after flood events. Annual testing for bacteria and nitrates is encouraged even if there are no visible signs of contamination. More resources are available on the DNR’s Wells webpage, including lists of certified labs and licensed professionals.
Those who rely on public water systems are generally protected from such contamination due to system design safeguards but are encouraged to contact their supplier with any concerns about drinking water safety. Additional guidance for those affected by severe weather is available through the DNR’s Coping with Flooding webpage as well as resources provided by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
According to the official website, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources supports outdoor recreation by managing state parks, trails, forests, and wildlife areas according to the official website. The agency also focuses on conserving natural resources for current and future generations according to its website, extends its management efforts statewide according to its website, facilitates public input through advisory councils according to its website, enforces environmental laws according to its website, and offers services like hunting licenses and environmental permits according to its website.
As extreme weather becomes more common in Wisconsin, officials emphasize regular vigilance regarding private drinking water safety.
