Water-Well-Maintenance

Water wells provide direct access to a groundwater supply commonly shared by many. Wells must be maintained in a manner that do not contribute to contamination or waste of groundwater. The landowner has responsibility for maintenance of their well. If well construction problems are discovered that may contribute to contamination or waste of groundwater, the landowner may be required to repair or abandon the well to eliminate the problem. OWRD will look first to the well constructor to determine if the well was constructed to standards. However, if the constructor is unable or unwilling to perform the repairs, the landowner is ultimately responsible.

Well Cap - Periodically check the sanitary seal/well cap on top of the well
casing to ensure it is tight fitting and in good repair. If the well cap is vented
make sure the vent is screened and free of debris.

Well Casing - Minimum well construction standards require sound casing a
minimum 1-foot above land surface to prevent overland flow of water from
entering the well. See that the casing is not damaged or compromised in any
way and that the casing remains above land surface (special standards may be
approved for an engineered below-ground vault).

Well Shelter - If your well is contained within a shelter or pumphouse, do not store poisons, pesticides, petroleum products, or other hazardous materials in the shelter or near your well. Do not use it to shelter animals.