What is Coliform Bacteria?
Besides turning the grass brown and drying up lakes and streams drought conditions can cause other problems. So can heavy rainfall. Although a well may have had no problems for many years, unusual weather conditions can cause some wells to be contaminated with bacteria. On the other hand, wells that have been contaminated by surface water may not show a problem now, again due to unusual weather conditions. This emphasizes the need for regular testing of well water. The basic test for bacterial contamination is Total Coliform bacteria. Total Coliform is an indicator of the sanitary condition of a water supply. Total Coliform includes bacteria that is found in soil, in water that is on or near the surface of the ground, and in human or animal waste. When Total Coliform is found in a private well supply, the first step is usually to check the well for any physical defects. A broken or missing well cap, or a well casing which is too close to the surface of the ground or is located beneath
