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.
Borehole owners should never neglect to have quality tests performed. Even water that looks clean can contain bacteria and other contaminants that may pose a danger to the health of the people and animals that use it. In a study done by the Montana State University a large percentage of samples from privately owned boreholes were found to contain extremely high levels of nitrate. In addition, almost forty per cent contained the coliform bacteria.
There are large numbers of contaminants, including bacteria and chemical as well as biological agents that can infect a borehole. Testing for all of them is not viable because it is an expensive process. Experts agree, however, that a standard analysis should include tests for coliform bacteria and nitrates. These contaminants may cause disease. Tests should also be done for the presence of dissolved solids.
The danger of contaminated boreholes should not be underestimated. Young people and those with debilitating diseases such as cancer and AIDS patients are especially vulnerable. Hepatitis, neurological disorders and dysentery are common. Diarrhea is another commonplace consequence. Borehole products can even lead to reproductive problems and many cases of neurological disorders have been linked to the use of suspect borehole products.
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.
Experts agree that borehole contents should be tested at least once a year. However, more frequent or incidental tests should be undertaken when certain signs occur. If any user becomes ill or if there have been incidents of flooding it may be a good idea to have the borehole tested. If there is any change in the color or taste alarm bells should also ring.
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.
Borehole owners should never neglect to have quality tests performed. Even water that looks clean can contain bacteria and other contaminants that may pose a danger to the health of the people and animals that use it. In a study done by the Montana State University a large percentage of samples from privately owned boreholes were found to contain extremely high levels of nitrate. In addition, almost forty per cent contained the coliform bacteria.
There are large numbers of contaminants, including bacteria and chemical as well as biological agents that can infect a borehole. Testing for all of them is not viable because it is an expensive process. Experts agree, however, that a standard analysis should include tests for coliform bacteria and nitrates. These contaminants may cause disease. Tests should also be done for the presence of dissolved solids.
The danger of contaminated boreholes should not be underestimated. Young people and those with debilitating diseases such as cancer and AIDS patients are especially vulnerable. Hepatitis, neurological disorders and dysentery are common. Diarrhea is another commonplace consequence. Borehole products can even lead to reproductive problems and many cases of neurological disorders have been linked to the use of suspect borehole products.
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.
Experts agree that borehole contents should be tested at least once a year. However, more frequent or incidental tests should be undertaken when certain signs occur. If any user becomes ill or if there have been incidents of flooding it may be a good idea to have the borehole tested. If there is any change in the color or taste alarm bells should also ring.
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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