Here's your annual reminder to "test, tend, and treat" your well water, free kits available through Cook County Land Services
Mar 19, 2026 09:21AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: Johnny McClung on Unsplash.com
By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - March 19, 2026
In Minnesota, approximately 1.1 million residents rely on private wells for drinking water. But when it comes to determining whether it is safe to drink, testing is the only sure way to know. According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), most harmful contaminants lack a specific taste, smell, or appearance. To remind people to "test, tend, and treat" annually, officials use National Groundwater Awareness Week (March 8-14) to highlight the importance of groundwater protection and responsible well management.
Common Contaminants of Concern
In Cook County, the Land Services Department manages programs designed to help residents identify and remediate potential water quality issues during this season.Health officials have identified five primary contaminants that frequently impact groundwater quality across the state and within Cook County:
Coliform Bacteria: Microorganisms often introduced via surface water or faulty septic systems; they can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Nitrates: Often resulting from organic matter breakdown or septic leaks, high levels can lead to "blue baby syndrome" by interfering with blood oxygen levels.
Arsenic: A naturally occurring element linked to cardiovascular disease and developmental issues in children.
Manganese: While necessary in small amounts, excessive exposure can impact memory and motor skills.
Lead: Often entering water through older plumbing, lead is a toxic metal that can cause significant behavioral and learning disabilities.
The MDH recommends that well owners test for nitrate and coliform bacteria every year. Testing for arsenic, lead, and manganese should occur at least once, particularly if children or infants will be consuming the water.
Local Testing Resources
Since December 2024, the Cook County Land Services Department has been offering free well-water test kits, thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Health. Initially, the program prioritized groups such as seniors, veterans, families with young children, and those receiving federal assistance, such as SNAP or WIC. However, the program has now expanded to include a larger portion of community members, while preference is still given to year-round residents, property owners, and long-term renters. Land Services Department Vacation Rental Administrator and Compliance Officer Andrew Beavers shared that as of March 2026, approximately 50 free test kits remain available to the public.
Residents can obtain these kits at the Land Services office in the Cook County Courthouse. The department will notify residents who use a free kit if contaminants are detected above the normal limit.
For residents whose tests identify contaminants, options are available to mitigate, including installing point-of-use or whole-home filters, such as reverse osmosis or a water softener, as well as repairing cracks where contaminants enter the well or building a new well entirely. Beavers said the Land Services Department is specifically encouraging individuals who know they have "fouled" wells to engage in testing and discuss potential eligibility for "earmarked remediation funds" available through grant programs.
For those who do not qualify for local grants, the MDH offers separate loans and grants for water treatment through its state-level resources. Residents with questions regarding the program or available funding can contact the Cook County Land Services Department at 218-387-3678 or by email [email protected].
