The state is offering free water testing for Michigan residents to check their wells for common contaminants like bacteria, minerals and heavy metals.
A water test can cost up to $200, but thanks to a one-time, $5 million state appropriation, residents can have their private well water tested for free.
Sara Pearson is with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). She said 1,300 residents have already requested a test within the first days of the new program, and EGLE projects testing up to 30,000 wells.
"Many people have not had their water tested since their well was installed, and that could be decades, so it's really important to know your water quality," Pearson said, adding, "We really want to demonstrate [to the legislature] this funding is needed."
Pearson said the goal is to test as many wells as possible - until the allocated funding runs dry.
"[Testing is] going to give people a sense of security to people about their water quality," Pearson said. "I'd also like it to raise people's awareness: their well is their own water supply, and they are the operator of that."
Pearson said EGLE may also use the data to help with public outreach and future well permitting.
Residents can learn if they're eligible and request a test online. Through the program, residents will learn to take their own test samples, but their local health department can help interpret the results.
