Although most Idaho residents use city water as their main source for drinking water, nearly 30% of Idaho residents rely on private wells for drinking water. What’s more, private wells are not regulated by any governmental agency. This means it is the well owner’s responsibility to make sure the water is safe to drink.

Some contaminants cannot be tasted, seen or smelled and could cause health problems. The only way to know if it is safe is to have the water regularly tested.

The Idaho Bureau of Laboratories (IBL) provides this service and certifies drinking water laboratories statewide to ensure high quality well water test results are available to protect the health and safety of Idahoans.  

In mid-September 2024, IBL Bureau Chief Dr. Chris Ball and his team wanted to contribute to the department’s wildly important goal of doubling the rate of foster families in a meaningful way. They launched free well water testing for foster families for certified family homes supporting foster children. Since then, they have completed 98 bacteriological tests- and have helped foster families rest easy knowing their drinking water is safe. 

Ball said he’d like to expand the program statewide and especially in rural areas with less access to drinking water labs. However, the biggest challenge is ensuring samples reach the lab within 24 hours of the collection. 

IBL’s contribution to waive fees for foster families shows their dedication to supporting Idaho’s community, especially those who care for vulnerable children. 

Resources for safe drinking water

To help Idahoans determine if their water is safe, IBL teamed up with partners and other state agencies to create an interactive map called Ground Water Quality Near Me. To see test results in your area, enter your address and see if there are elevated levels of contaminants that might be impacting your well water. 

You can also find additional information on a dashboard on the Get Healthy Idaho webpage, which has information regarding regional contaminants, things to test for, testing frequency, and resources for well maintenance that should be done on a well. 

If you have a private well, you may want to get your water tested to protect you and your family’s health. For more details read Drinking Water and Private Wells.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.