The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources encourages private well owners to consider testing their drinking water after significant rainfall and flooding. Heavy rain can impact drinking water quality.

Flood waters and runoff contain bacteria and other contaminants that can affect private water supplies and cause the spread of waterborne illness. Wells located in pits, basements and low-lying areas are especially susceptible to contamination. 

Well owners who experience flooding or observe changes to the taste, color or sediment levels in their water following heavy rainfall should assume their well is contaminated and stop drinking the water and disinfect your well.