Montana Private Wells: What MSU Extension Says Owners Should Test

Montana Private Wells: What MSU Extension Says Owners Should Test

An MSU Extension article says private well owners must test their own water, because only public supplies are tested by professionals and report annually.

What to test

• Every year: bacteria and nitrate.
• First test: a complete list of parameters. Labs often sell a domestic package that bundles them at a discount.
• Use a certified lab.

What MSU Extension's Well Educated samples found

• Total coliform bacteria: about 25% of samples.
• E. coli: about 3%.
• Nitrate above the drinking water threshold: about 3%. Infants and pregnant women face the greatest risk.
• Arsenic and manganese above health thresholds: about 10% of wells.

The article gives no numeric thresholds. It says the standards are federal standards for public supplies and are not enforced for private wells; it points to the Well Educated "What to Test For: Guidance by County" page. Not verified: the exact limits and the county guidance, which we did not open.

Not verified: Montana rules on well drilling or pump installation. Ask a licensed driller. Pump and filter choices should follow lab results.

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General information only. Not plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with a licensed professional and your local authority.