Iowa Private Wells: Annual Testing Advice from ISU Extension

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach news item, summarized. Only stated points are included.

The water quality program manager quoted says wells should be tested annually, even if the well and surrounding area have not changed, for nitrate and bacteria.
Spring and early summer are described as ideal, because melting snow and spring rain recharge the aquifer.
Test kits are available through county environmental health departments or sanitarians, or the State Hygienic Laboratory private well section. The page says many counties offer financial help through the Grants-to-Counties Well Program.
Per Iowa DNR: if flood water reached the well casing, covered its top, or covered areas around neighboring wells, test for total coliform bacteria. If bacteria are found, use another source for drinking and cooking until a test shows the water is safe.
The page cites Iowa DNR that more than 75% of Iowans rely on groundwater as their primary drinking water source.
For livestock, nitrate at or below 100 ppm (as N) is generally considered safe; young and pregnant animals are at higher risk.

Not verified: pump selection, well construction rules and county requirements; the page does not cover them.

General information only. Not health, plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with your county health department.