What’s in the water you drink?

Groundwater provides 100% of the drinking water in Washington County and 70% of drinking water statewide. Over the past several years, a number of groundwater contamination issues have developed in the east metro area and numerous private wells in Denmark Twp. have been found to have elevated nitrate levels.

On Sept. 7, Chisago SWCD will provide free testing of nitrate and chloride in drinking water during a Well Water Screening Clinic at Lakes EMS in North Branch. The clinic is free and open to everyone.

To participate, bring drinking water from your home (minimum of one cup - 8oz) in a clean, hard plastic or glass container and include the location and date that you collected the sample. You can wait for your results or request them via email. During the clinic, experts will also be on hand to discuss wellhead protection and groundwater concerns, including arsenic, and bacteria. Stop by anytime to pick up fact sheets and talk with clinic volunteers.

Co-sponsors for the Water Testing Clinic include Chisago SWCD, East Metro Water Education Program, Lower St. Croix Watershed Partnership, Minnesota Groundwater Association, and the Minnesota Well Owners Organization.