Abandoned Wells
Abandoned wells are direct pathways for contaminants, such as bacteria, fertilizers and pesticides, to reach underground aquifers (natural groundwater storage areas), which provide about 80 percent of Iowa’s water! In fact, fertilizers have been detected in Iowa’s groundwater since 1964.
Viewer Tip: If you are planning on closing a well or if there are abandoned wells on your property, it is important to get them properly closed to prevent groundwater pollution. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources can provide more information on how to close a well, and there is information provided at www.iowadnr.com/water/wells/plugging.html.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Sources: Iowa Groundwater Association. “Iowa’s Groundwater Basics.” http://www.igsb.uiowa.edu/gwbasics/; Iowa Department of Natural Resources, http://www.iowadnr.com/water/wells/plugging.html)
