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The National Groundwater Association urges private water well owners to prepare for extreme weather conditions during the summer months.

According to the NGWA, flooding can cause permanent damage to a water, as well as increase the possibility of water contamination.

The NGWA was founded in 1948 and consists of a community of groundwater professionals working together to advance groundwater knowledge and the success of its members through education and outreach.

The Alabama Department of Public Health lists groundwater as the main source of drinking water for 44% of the state’s total population.

According to the ADPH, the person that owns a well is responsible for assuring that the water obtained from it is safe if used as drinking water.

Because of that obligation, the ADPH recommends routine testing be taken.

One of the benefits of regular testing is that it establishes a record of a well’s water quality with the ADPH.

The testing process includes a bacteriological test to measure if the water is suitable. This procedure is used for both public water systems and private well owners.

To schedule an appointment to have a water well tested or for more details, contact the Chilton County Health Department at 205-755-1287.