Freshwater and the Mayo Clinic, are partnering to test private drinking water wells for arsenic in eight southern Minnesota counties (Rice, Steele, Freeborn, Waseca, Faribault, Blue Earth, Watonwan, and Martin). This project approaches well testing with a new lens by partnering with healthcare physicians to educate and encourage residents to test their wells – and by offering free, convenient well testing opportunities.
Arsenic is an element found in rocks and soil across Minnesota. When dissolved into groundwater, arsenic can impact the safety of drinking water and can increase the risk of cancer and other health concerns such as cardiovascular and respiratory disease, reduced intelligence in children, and skin problems. A key objective is to educate both private well users and the Mayo Clinic healthcare providers who frequently diagnose and treat preventable diseases linked to chronic arsenic exposure.
Arsenic Testing Kits - Available Online
For private well users in Rice, Steele, Freeborn, Waseca, Faribault, Blue Earth, Watonwan, or Martin counties, arsenic testing kits are available to request online at no cost to you. All materials are shipped directly to your door with paid return postage.
“Clean drinking water is something everyone deserves. This project helps Minnesota families find out if their well water is safe and gives them simple steps to protect their health. I’m proud to be part of this effort to make testing easier and raise awareness about the risks of arsenic in well water.”
- Dr. Dominika Jegen, family physician with Mayo Clinic and project partner
Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). The Trust Fund is a permanent fund constitutionally established by the citizens of Minnesota to assist in the protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of the state’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources.
For more information about this project, please reach out to Chyann Mosey.