New videos: Private well nitrate testing & maintenance of reverse osmosis systems
Thousands of families across Southeast Minnesota rely on private wells for their drinking water. Unlike public water systems, private wells are not regulated—meaning testing and maintenance are the homeowner’s responsibility.
Olmsted County is sharing two new short videos to help residents protect their drinking water:
Video 1: Private Well Water Safety & Nitrate Testing
This video explains:
- What nitrate is and how it enters groundwater.
- Why nitrate levels above 10 mg/L can be harmful.
- Why Southeast Minnesota’s karst geology increases vulnerability.
- How the TAP-IN Collaborative supports eligible private well owners.
Video 2: Reverse Osmosis (RO) System Maintenance
This video covers:
- How to sanitize your RO system.
- How and when to replace filters.
- Why regular maintenance is essential for effectiveness.
The TAP-IN Collaborative brings together Soil and Water Conservation Districts, county environmental services, and public health departments across nine counties to support safe drinking water solutions.
With more than 36,000 private wells across the region, awareness, testing, and proper system maintenance are critical to protecting public health.
Need a water testing kit?
Kits are available at Olmsted County Public Health located at 2100 Campus Drive SE in Rochester.
You can also learn more through the TAP-IN Collaborative website: Tap In - Safe Drinking Water for SE MN
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