What contaminants are likely to be found in well water?
Bacteria are the most common. Bacteria are normally present in the air, soil, and water. Most of these bacteria are beneficial or harmless. Bacteria can enter the well through improperly installed or damaged equipment. • Nitrates (dangerous for infants) from sewage systems or fertilizers have been found in some wells. • Sodium and chloride (salty taste) from water softeners or road salt have been found in some wells. • Iron and manganese (brown or black staining) is found in some of the bedrock and is found in some many wells. • Certain wells have contaminants from fuel spills or spills of other industrial or agricultural chemicals. Click Here for Dutchess County Department of Health’s Environmental Health Services contact information.
