By Scout Nelson
For the first time, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) offered free nitrate testing for private wells at Farmfest. The new service gave well owners quick results on the safety of their drinking water.
Over the three-day event, 107 wells were tested. Results showed six wells above the federal health limit of 10 milligrams per litre (mg/L) nitrate-nitrogen, while nine others had elevated levels between 5 and 10 mg/L. With about three-quarters of Minnesotans relying on groundwater for drinking water, these findings underline the importance of monitoring.
“Unsafe nitrate levels can be a hidden danger in Minnesota well water,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “At Farmfest, we uncovered those risks and gave families immediate answers to protect themselves.”
Nitrate in drinking water is linked to health risks, particularly for infants and pregnant women. Since nitrate cannot be detected by taste or smell, annual testing is strongly recommended by the Minnesota Department of Health.
Experts at the event explained that common causes of unsafe nitrate levels include shallow or poorly constructed wells, proximity to crop fields or manure, and regional geology such as fractured limestone in southeast Minnesota’s karst areas. “One young family with a newborn learned their water wasn’t safe,” said Denton Bruening, a water-quality expert leading the clinic. “They left our booth with both answers and options—that’s the power of this program.”
MDA staff offered guidance on treatment options, including reverse osmosis and distillation systems, and in some cases suggested alternative water sources. The program has been testing wells statewide for more than 30 years. In 2024, over 2,400 wells were tested, with 6% above the health standard.
“The response at Farmfest shows how valuable this service is,” Petersen added. “Every Minnesotan deserves safe drinking water, and free clinics like this are one way we make that a reality.”
Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Energy