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Commonly Asked Questions About Springs - Minnesota Dept. of Health Page 3 of :3 Springs are susceptible to contamination from surrounding land uses. Springs usually are formed In close proximity to the area where water seeps into the ground. This area Is called a Itrechargen area. Since the recharge area Is close to the spring outlet, there is Inadequate filtering of the water and remQval of contaminants. Common sources of contamination are septic systems, barn yards, fertilizer and pesticides, chemical or petroleum leaks, and old dumps and landfills. Periodic testing of springs for bacteria and nitrate has been proven to be generally ineffective In assuring a sanitary water supply because of rapid fluctuations In water quality and because many other possible contaminants may be present In spring water. In most cases, springs have not been tested for pesticides, Industrial wastes, petroleum products, or toxic metals. These contaminants may be present in the spring water at one time or another depending upon where the water originates, and land-use practices around the spring. Because the quality of spring water Is often unacceptable, the MDH does not recommend using spring water as a drinking water supply. The MDH recommends using a safe, tested source of water such as a public water supply, a properly constructed private well, or bottled water. Can Springs Be Protected? Many springs are on private property, but when springs are located on municipal, state, or federal property the spring water may be accessible to the public for drinking. The protection of springs from contamination can be improved by restricting land-use practices around the spring recharge area, but there are no guarantees. Recharge areas for springs are usually on higher ground near the spring, but the recharge area may be located off of the property on which the spring Is located. New amendments to the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act have significantly changed the criteria by which surface water supplies, including springs, may be used as public water supplies. Starting In 1993, surface water systems, Including springs, must be filtered and disinfected before the water may be made available to the public. Disinfection of spring water Is difficult since the disinfectant Is often not In contact with the water long enough to be totally effective. The Federal Safe Drinking Water Act will also greatly Increase the testing required for spring water. The Increased costs In supplying spring water to the public may mean that most springs will not be used as a drinking water source, and access to the springs will be restricted. Where can I get more information or help? If you have any questions about your well or well water quality In greater Minnesota contact your local Minnesota Department of Health office, and ask to talk with a well specialist or contact the Central Office at wells@health.state.mn.us or by telephone at 651-201-4600 or 800-383-9808. TOO through the Minnesota Relay Service at 800-627-3529 and ask for 651""201-4600. Updated Thursday, 18-Jan-2oo7 16:25:24 CST " http://www.health.state.mn.usldivs/ehlwe11slwaterqualitj/springs.htmI 2f1/2007 .