Drinking Water and Surface Water Resources
Drinking Water
Safe, clean drinking water is what we expect when we turn on our faucets. Our Environmental Health staff works with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to collect water samples at rural public water systems not connected to municipal water systems such as churches, campgrounds, and restaurants. Our Environmental Health staff can help connect private well water owners with area water testing labs. These labs provide various tests for water, but it’s recommended to test annually for bacteria (total coliform) and nitrate. The DNR also recommends nitrate and nitrite testing for newly drilled wells and if there is a newborn child in the home. The Dunn County Health Department has some water test kits on site for area labs. It’s recommended to test private well water for bacterial contamination if the well has been subjected to flood waters.
Other contaminants to test may include Arsenic and/or pesticides.
- Department of Natural Resources - Drinking Water
- DNR - Identify your water's symptoms
- Nitrates in Drinking Water
- Tests for Drinking Water from Private Wells
- Well Water Basics and Testing
Well Grant Information
- The Department of Natural Resources offers a Well Compensation Grant Program which provides funding to eligible landowners or renters to replace, reconstruct or treat contaminated private water supplies that serve a residence or provide water to livestock. To be eligible, family income may not exceed $65,000 for the prior calendar year or financial hardship funding is determined.
- DNR-Well Compensation Grant Program
- Well Compensation Grant Application Claim form - you will need to download this form to complete.
Septic systems
The Environmental Health Department responds to complaints from failure of septic systems that result in indoor exposure to wastes that constitute a public health concern.
Long term system analysis is handled through the Dunn County Zoning Office. Contact the Public Health Department at 715-232-2388 if you have concerns about a septic backup in your home. Limit exposure to septic wastes and make sure the environment is properly cleaned and disinfected following sewage back-up.
Groundwater Mapping
There is increasing interest in the mapping results of (remove continuing) groundwater testing to help well owners identify areas that have tested higher in contaminants or the susceptibility to have elevated levels of contaminants in areas adjacent to their well. Several county agencies have been working together to develop a user-friendly interactive map.
Flooding
If you have had flooding in your area and believe your well may have been subjected to flood waters, you should look into having your well testing for bacteria. Wells that test positive for bacteria will need to be chlorinated, a job that is often best left to professionals. Use the links below to help educate yourself about the risks to your well with flooding. If you have questions, please contact us. Often, wells that have been flooded are tested for bacteria by the state, free of charge.
Lakes and Rivers
Lake or river water that is green or smelly can usually signal an outbreak of blue green algae. If you feel you have health concerns related to exposure to blue-green algae, visit the site below to register your concerns with the DNR. They may work with our EH program to test water and post to prevent illness to humans or animals from exposure to the algae. Do not swim or wade or allow your pets to swim in or drink these waters.