Taos Soil & Water Conservation District
Watershed Program
What is the Well Water Quality Program?
One of the goals of the Taos SWCD is to educate private well owners about the importance of water quality and how it impacts both health and overall quality of life.
Through this program, we aim to address water quality concerns related to nonpoint source groundwater contamination.
TSWCD is offering cost-sharing opportunities for water testing. Depending on the type of test you choose, we can help reduce the cost, making it easier for you to better understand and protect your water quality.
When Should I Get My Water Tested and How Often?
Private well owners should test their water for bacteria and nitrate annually.
In addition, drinking water should be tested if:
● You notice a change in your water quality (change in water taste, color, or smell).
● There are changes in the water availability (Water Table dropped).
● People drinking the water suffer from an illness that may be waterborne.
● After a natural disaster such as wildfire or flood.
● You replace or repair any part of your well system.
● You are having problems with your septic tank.
● You identify a major water leak.
● When children, babies, or a pregnant person will be living in the home.
● If your well has never been tested.
More information can be found in the New Mexico Private Well Owners Handbook issued by the New Mexico Department of Health. The handbook can be accessed here.
Well Testing with Mikhial Parison
It’s as simple as opening a jar.
Well Water Quality Cost Share Program
This program is available to Taos County residents located outside the Town of Taos and is intended solely for residential (non-commercial, private well) use. Please read the information about how the individual Acequia Program works prior to filling out an application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted, so please do not submit an application that does not include all of the required information.
Information
Information about how the Program works can be found by clicking here
Application
Please click here for the Well Water Quality Cost Share Program Application
