February 2025 Trivia Answer

Answer: c) Approximately 1.2 million Minnesotans get their drinking water from private wells. 

In Southeastern Minnesota, the EPA estimates that 9,200 Minnesotans rely on drinking water from private wells that are at or above the federal health limit for nitrate. The EPA has issued a mandate to Minnesota to take further actions to safeguard public health in Southeastern Minnesota, with a focus on private well owners.

Unlike public water systems, which are required to regularly test their water supply and treat it if it nears unsafe contaminant levels, private well owners are largely on their own to protect their drinking water. Consuming nitrate-contaminated drinking water can cause a dangerous blood disorder called methemoglobinemia, and has been linked to an increased risk for certain types of cancer and pregnancy complications. It’s critical that the Legislature continues to act on mitigating nitrate contamination to make sure all Minnesotans have access to clean drinking water. 

Take action today and ask legislators to help fund well remediation efforts in SE MN.