DEQ seeks participation in private well sampling event in Fremont County

August 13, 2024

Contact: Kim Roush, Senior Hydrogeologist, [email protected]

IDAHO FALLS - The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is reaching out to private well owners in the South Fremont Nitrate Priority Area, located in eastern Idaho, to participate in a private well sampling event.

The sampling event will test for nitrates and bacteria and will take place in the fall of this year. Participation is free and well owners will receive a copy of the results.

DEQ maintains a list of degraded groundwater areas throughout the state, which are referred to as nitrate priority areas. In 2020, the South Fremont Nitrate Priority Area was listed as a "moderate-high" priority due to elevated levels of nitrate, with South Fremont County and Ashton/Drummond ranked 12th and 14th, respectively.

Groundwater provides over 95% of Idaho's drinking water and nitrate is the most common and widespread contaminant in groundwater. Long-term exposure to elevated nitrate levels can have adverse health effects, especially in infants younger than six months and individuals with underlying health conditions.

To participate, sign up here or contact Kim Roush at (208) 528-2650 or [email protected].