A Low Water Resource for Homeowners with Private Wells

Why be concerned? 

During times of low water conditions (e.g. drought, climate change) contaminants may have more direct access to your well. Not only is there a risk of running out of water but the quality of your well water may be adversely affected.

• Winter – Surface water can freeze minimizing groundwater recharge.
• Spring – Rain and snow melt can saturate the ground and enter the water table quickly without proper filtration.
• Summer – Reduced precipitation minimizes groundwater recharge.
• Fall – Heavy rainfall on dry cracked soil has easy access to groundwater without proper filtration.

When should I test my water?

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health recommends testing your well water a minimum of once per season to ensure your water is safe to consume. Test your water more often if you have a history of adverse results or if there is a change in the quantity and/or quality of your drinking water. For information on testing your well water visit the Drinking Water page on the HPEPH website.

Where do I find information on water level conditions?

To find information on water level conditions go to Quinte Conservation or Lower Trent Conservation or Crowe Valley Conservation.

How do I find my well record?

To find information on your well such as type, depth, flow rate and soil types go to the MOECC well records website. Contact a licensed well contractor prior to any work being done on your well.

What should I do during periods of low water levels?

• Water conservation is the best way to avoid a dry well. Visit Quinte Conservation for tips on how to conserve water.
• For remedial options visit Managing your water well in times of water shortage.
• If your well has gone dry, notify your local conservation authority.

What NOT to do during low water levels?

• Do not use water for unnecessary tasks such as watering the lawn or washing the car.
• Do not add surface water (i.e. river or lake water) to your well as this may contaminate the groundwater aquifer. Contact the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change if you suspect someone is compromising the groundwater in your area.
• Do not forget to test your drinking water at least once per season.

For more information contact:
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Environmental Health
179 North Park Street, Belleville, ON K8P 4P1

T: 613-966-5500 | 1-800-267-2803 | F: 613-966-9418
TTY: 711 or 1-800-267-6511

We are committed to providing accessible publications, programs and services to all. For assistance please call 613-966-5500; TTY: 711 or email accessibility@hpeph.ca. For more information, please visit
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