Because private wells are not monitored for drinking water quality standards like municipal water sources are, you might want to consider testing your private well water supply. Even if you do have good water quality, routine testing is a good idea to establish a water quality record. If a contaminant problem suddenly appears, it is easier to correlate what the cause is.
This is where the Montana Well Educated Program comes in. A kit is available at the Chouteau County Extension Office located at 1308 Franklin St in Fort Benton or by calling 406-622-3751. The kit includes information on what tests are available, the cost and instructions on how to properly obtain the water sample. Assistance is also available on determining what tests to run and understanding the test results.
The Montana Well Educated Program has a lot of information on their website at waterquality.montana.edu/well-ed/. Please contact Janell at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036, janellb@montana.edu or in the Chouteau County Courthouse at 1308 Franklin St in Fort Benton with any questions or for more information.
Montana State University, US Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.
