LITTLE ROCK — When flooding submerges wellheads, there’s a good chance the well water supply has been contaminated, said Mike Daniels, water quality specialist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
“However, even if flooding has occurred nearby, then it is a good idea to have the water supply tested to assure it is still safe for humans and livestock,” he said.
“If there is any doubt about whether the quality of a water supply has been compromised, it’s important to have that water tested and follow procedures to sanitize the water supply.” You may submit water samples to the state Health Department or the Arkansas Water Quality Lab.
Visit arkansas-water-center.uark.edu/water-quality-lab.php to learn how to collect a sample to get an accurate result.
“It’s best to submit the sample within 24 hours after collection,” Daniels said.
However, “as long as the sample has been refrigerated, it will be about to provide realistic results for up to four days.” If the results show more than 10,000 colony forming units of total bacteria per milliliter, more than 100 colony forming units of coliform bacteria, or more than 50 colony forming units per milliliter, it’s a good idea to shock chlorinate the well.
Shock chlorination is a process by which home water systems, such as wells, springs and cisterns are disinfected using liquid bleach, or chlorine.
“It is the most widely recommended means of treating bacterial contamination in home water system as it is the quickest, cheapest and most efficient method of treatment,” Daniels said.
“Shock chlorination should only be done when the water supply will not be used by humans or animals for at least 24 hours because the initial chlorine levels are not safe to drink.” Visit uaex.edu/publications/pdf/MP292.pdf to learn more about shock chlorination in MP292 and improving home water quality.