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Nebraska has a high percentage of households relying on private wells for drinking water, particularly in rural and agricultural areas. The state sits over the Ogallala Aquifer and other significant groundwater resources that support both domestic water use and irrigation.
Nebraska does not have a statewide mandate requiring private well water testing at property sale. However, the state takes groundwater quality seriously. The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy and the state's Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) provide resources and testing programs for well owners.
Nitrate contamination is a significant concern across much of Nebraska due to intensive agricultural activity. The combination of row crop agriculture, livestock operations, and irrigation creates conditions that can elevate nitrate levels in groundwater. Understanding your water quality through testing is particularly important in Nebraska.
Nebraska does not have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for property sales. Testing is recommended but voluntary for existing wells under state law.
For new well construction, testing is typically part of the approval process. Check with your local health department for specific requirements when drilling a new well.
NDEE and NRDs strongly recommend regular testing, especially for nitrates given Nebraska's agricultural context. Some NRDs run testing programs and may offer reduced-cost testing for well owners in their districts.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. Given Nebraska's known nitrate issues, testing before purchase is prudent practice.
Nitrate testing is particularly critical in Nebraska. Agricultural fertilizer application, livestock operations, and septic systems can contribute to elevated nitrate levels. Nitrates pose serious health risks, especially to infants. Annual nitrate testing is strongly recommended.
The baseline bacteria testing applies in Nebraska as everywhere: total coliform and E. coli for sanitary integrity. Annual testing for bacteria helps ensure your well isn't compromised.
Arsenic occurs naturally in some Nebraska groundwater. It's odorless and tasteless, so testing is the only way to detect it. Testing for arsenic at least once is recommended, especially if you haven't tested before.
Consider also testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), uranium (in some areas), iron and manganese (common aesthetic issues), and hardness. Your NRD or county health department can advise on specific concerns for your area.
Every year-nitrates especially important
At minimum once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in Nebraska depend on what you're testing for and which provider you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding arsenic, uranium, or comprehensive panels increases the cost.
Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) across Nebraska often offer testing programs, sometimes at reduced cost for well owners in their districts. Check with your local NRD to see what's available. Local health departments and certified labs also provide testing.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive and must reach the lab within 24-30 hours), chemical tests for nitrates and metals within 5-10 business days.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are found.
Nebraska well owners can choose from certified laboratories, NRD programs, local health department services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use certified labs.
Natural Resources Districts are valuable resources in Nebraska. Many NRDs run testing programs and have local expertise on groundwater quality in their districts. Check with your NRD first to see what services and resources are available.
Given Nebraska's significant nitrate concerns, make sure your chosen provider includes nitrate testing. This should be part of annual testing for all Nebraska well owners, especially in agricultural areas.
The University of Nebraska also provides water testing resources and educational materials for well owners. Their Extension services can help interpret results and provide guidance.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Nebraska, from nitrate concerns to NRD programs.