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Nitrates and phosphates, which typically are associated with human and
<br />animal waste, are the most common contaminants from septic systems.
<br />Nitrates may also be leached into the soil from stock enclosures,
<br />feedlots, and manure piles.
<br />Many household cleansers contain chemicals that can cause health
<br />problems when found in large concentrations in ground water. In
<br />addition, some chemicals are not suitable for disposal in septic systems.
<br />Consider alternative cleansers that are non -toxic and biodegradable.
<br />Automobiles can cause water pollution. Drips of antifreeze, oil, grease,
<br />and gasoline are washed into ground water. Metals, such as copper and
<br />zinc, are released as brake linings wear out. Always dispose of used
<br />automotive fluids at a recycling center. Commonly, retail automotive
<br />supply stores will accept, at no charge, used oil and antifreeze from
<br />individual customers.
<br />Abandoned and active mining sites are also potentially significant
<br />sources of contaminants to water. Impacts include acid rock drainage,
<br />elevated levels of toxic heavy metals, sulfate, cyanide, nitrate, and
<br />radioactive elements.
<br />Unlike public water supplies, which are routinely monitored, the
<br />responsibility for assuring a safe water supply for private well users
<br />rests solely with the homeowner. Regular testing is necessary in
<br />determining whether your well water is safe to drink.
<br />Nitrate is a contaminant that
<br />was studied in the Upper
<br />Arkansas Ground Water Study.
<br />It is often linked to human
<br />activity and commonly
<br />originates from septic systems,
<br />stock enclosures, and fertilizer.
<br />A study of ground water in the
<br />Upper Arkansas River Basin
<br />conducted in the 1970 -80s
<br />(Crouch and others, 1984)
<br />reported trace amounts (less
<br />than 1 milligram per liter) of
<br />nitrate in the majority of ground-
<br />water samples from the area.
<br />However, concentrations in
<br />several samples exceeded
<br />background concentrations,
<br />indicating potential
<br />contamination from the surface.
<br />Samples collected for the
<br />current study of the Upper
<br />Arkansas Basin between Buena
<br />Vista and Salida generally were
<br />similar in concentrations to
<br />those found previously.
<br />Testing the Waters
<br />What to test for is a question best answered after carefully reviewing your water, plumbing, and personal needs.
<br />In most cases, all private wells should be tested annually for bacteria and nitrates. Spring is a good time for this, since it
<br />is the time when recharge from melting snow or rain is likely to recharge the ground water. if ground water is free of
<br />bacteria in the spring, it is likely to be bacteria -free year - round.
<br />Certain areas have naturally high fluoride levels in ground water. While a certain amount of fluoride is desirable, and is
<br />added to some public water systems, elevated levels can pose health problems for children and adults. If fluoride levels
<br />are elevated, tests for radioactive components also are recommended. Some areas are known to have high natural
<br />radiation levels, due to the presence of uranium and other minerals. Long -term consumption of water with elevated
<br />radiation levels may cause significant health problems including cancer and kidney damage. Consider having your water
<br />tested for gross alpha and beta radiation, uranium, radium -226, and radon -222. Inside air in your home should also be
<br />tested for radon:
<br />If you notice mineral deposits or stains on plumbing fixtures, consider testing for total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness,
<br />iron, manganese, copper, and possibly silica. Blue -green staining, metallic taste, or thinning copper pipes with pinholes
<br />may indicate that the water is corrosive. Test Langlier index, pH, alkalinity, TDS, hardness, and copper levels before and
<br />after flushing waterlines.
<br />Water with a musty or swampy odor or taste, sulfur odor, cloudy appearance, or an oily sheen may indicate the presence
<br />of bacteria. Other unusual odors or appearance, color, or foaming and sudsing should be discussed with a certified
<br />water - quality laboratory. Color and appearance are often aesthetic and not health concerns. Ask the water - testing
<br />laboratory to be sure.
<br />Some recurring illness may be due to bacterial or Giardia contamination of drinking water. Giardia is a microorganism
<br />that is more common in surface water and that is rarely found in wells. Ingested in any amount, Giardia may cause severe
<br />diarrhea for several days in humans or in pets. While sometimes difficult to diagnose, it is easily treated once identified.
<br />A trip to the doctor or veterinarian with a stool sample may be required to confirm its presence.
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