Unused, unsealed wells pose a threat to public health because they provide a conduit for pollutants to reach the water table. The water table (groundwater) is the source of water for anyone using a private well (as opposed to city water) for their home or business. Every unused well that is not properly sealed poses a safety, health, and environmental threat to your family and community as well as a potential legal risk to the homeowner.
The Soil and Water Conservation District can provide cost-share funds – up to 50% – to landowners who arrange to seal their wells. Well-sealing typically costs between $300 and $1000. Call our office for more information on how you can defray this cost and provide a valuable service to your neighbors.
The Minnesota Department of Health coordinates well management program at the State level and provides many resources for landowners on their website, including information on well testing. Their website can be accessed here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/wells/index.html
Link to you tube video about sealing unused wells (MDH): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKS4OknlYO4&feature=c4-overview&list=UUzyev_TJ-jgpqIBhsEn4QDg