Nitrate is a common pollutant in Eau Claire County and can enter our water through leaky septic systems or runoff from lawns or farm fields.
Across Wisconsin, about 1 in 5 wells in farmed areas may be over the safe level of nitrate in water.
In Eau Claire County, this means up to 1,800 private wells may have unsafe drinking water.
“Yearly well checkups can identify pollution that can make us sick.” How do high levels of nitrate make us sick?
Nitrate levels above 10 parts per million are most harmful for pregnant women and infants.
Boiling water does not remove nitrate.
Nitrate levels above 2 parts per million may mean there are other pollutants in our water that can make us sick, such as bacteria, prescription drugs, or other chemicals used on lawns or fields.
We recommend an annual nitrate and bacteria test.
• Schedule an annual inspection by a local well driller or plumber to check the physical health of your well.
If your drinking water is unsafe: If your well has unsafe levels of nitrate, bacteria, or other pollutants, the Health Department can recommend more tests or treatment options that can improve the safety of your water.