Water Wells

Water Wells

Historically, in most parts of the world deep water wells have been assumed to contain pure water. Unfortunately, this assumption can no longer be made. The number of contaminated wells is increasing.

Roughly 22% of well test samples in Ontario tested unsafe for total Coliform bacteria and 16% tested unsafe for E. Coli. Added to these concerns are the multitude of chemicals and heavy metals that seep into the ground from land fill sites and chemical fertilizers and pesticides that continue to be used. There are also well water tests to determine other impurities that may be present. Protecting the Aquifer

We can encourage recycling programs to keep toxic waste out of landfill sites. We can encourage more traditional, non-chemical growing methods by choosing to purchase organically grown vegetable products and animals. We can keep contamination from getting into the underground water system through our own well.

We can encourage green sewage systems that will protect the environment for everyone

Protect Your Own Well

There are many things we can do to protect our own wells:

• Make sure it is sealed from surface water getting into it.
• Make sure the area near the well is raised so that surface water flows away from it.
• Septic systems and animal feces must be kept far from a well site.
• When filling lawn mowers etc. with gasoline or oil, a good distance must be maintained, in case of spills.

This is just an introduction to the topic of keeping your well pure. If you reside in Ontario, Well Aware videos and DVDs can be borrowed from your local library. More information can be obtained from www.realaction.ca/wellaware

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water wells