Water Wells
Typically, groundwater is naturally clean and safe for consumption. Because the overlying soil acts as a filter, groundwater is usually free of disease-causing microorganisms. However, contamination may occur following improper installation of well casings or caps, after a break in the casing or as a result of contaminated surface water entering the well. Contamination can also occur if wells are drilled in fractured bedrock without an adequate layer of protective soil and with less than the recommended minimum casing length.
In order to prevent illness, wells should be properly maintained and the water regularly tested for the presence of microbial contaminants. Well water should also be tested occasionally for possible inorganic and organic chemical contaminants.
Well Water Sampling
Water sampling containers can be picked up at the public health offices closest to you.
For more information visit AHS online:
*Only drinking water used by people will be tested. Samples collected for real estate, agricultural or commercial purposes will not be accepted or tested.
Shock Chlorination
Temporary contamination of a well water supply, or problems with colour or odour, may be eliminated by shock chlorinating the well.
Working Well Program
Private water well owners in Alberta are responsible for managing and maintaining their water wells. The Working Well program provides well owners with the information and tools they need to properly care for their wells.
Septic Systems
Septic Systems are an important part of any rural property, particularly in Mountain View County where this are no community based wastewater systems.
Learn more about Septic Systems:
- https://www.alberta.ca/private-sewage-codes-and-standards.aspx
- Septic System Do's, Don'ts and FAQs Sheet
Learn all the latest information on Septic Systems and proper maintenance based on provincial environmental regulations.
Water Well Drillers in Alberta
Contacts for Water Well Concerns
Contact AEPA for all water well concerns and AER if it relates to the Oil & Gas Sector
This information below is what I received from the AER contact and it starts to get more specific and I am wondering if we should rather just have contacts for AEPA and AER (above) and call it good?
Water Well Concerns
- For concerns related to a spill, release or emergency that could damage the environment, call the 24-Hour Environmental Response Line 1-800-222-6514
- For concerns with respect to gravel pit operations near you or the licence under the gravel pit operator, please contact AEPA.
- For concerns with respect to Temporary Diversion Licences (TDLs) issued for the Oil and Gas Sector or how the Water Act applies to energy development , contact the AER. Contact AEPA regarding TDLs for any other sector.
- This fact sheet explains how the Water Act applies to the AER’s regulation of energy development.
Drought Questions
Connect with Environment and Protected Areas’ Outreach Services:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Toll free: 310-3773 (in Alberta)
Email: epa.drought@gov.ab.ca