While nitrogen fertilizers and other nutrient sources (e.g., manure, bio-solids, and legume credits) are valued for their ability to increase crop yields, a portion of nitrogen applied through these methods leaches to groundwater as nitrate.

Concern has recently emerged about a group of trace organic compounds identified in the aquatic environment which might affect reproduction and development of wildlife species and humans due to endocrine disruption (Colborn et al., 1996; Roefer et al., 2000).

Private well testing is an evidence-based strategy to reduce risks from exposure to harmful contaminants. It is a primary way contaminants can be detected, potential for health risks can be estimated, and actions taken.

In Eastern Wisconsin, water levels over large regions have decreased due to many wells pumping from beneath a confining layer. This combination of geology and cumulative pumping from the wells has resulted in a large regional drawdown cone centered around Brown County, Wisconsin.

The goal of this project was to develop a sampling and testing algorithm to support the new site assessment requirements under the Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR) consistent with the “find and fix” goals of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR).

Enteric viruses, because of their small size, have a high potential to move deeply through the subsurface environment, penetrate aquitards, and reach confined aquifers.