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Wildfire-Impacted Domestic Well Testing

Domestic Well Testing after Wildfires

If you sustained losses or damage due to wildfires, consider having your well water tested.  We recommend testing for Arsenic, Nitrate, Bacteria, Lead, and, depending on damage assessment results, Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylenes (BTEX). 

Even if the fire did not directly damage your well, or if you have repaired damage to your well, testing is an important step in recovering your property. 

Before testing, follow these steps to recover your well after the wildfire

Assess

Begin by completing the well damage assessment to identify damage level and next steps. 

Well Damage Assessment

Cómo evaluar los daños
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Protect

Follow recommendations in the well damage assessment. Make sure you know what work you are authorized to do and what is required to be done by a licensed professional. Actions may include:

  • Repair and replace damaged well components
  • Re-pressurize and refill the well
  • Flush the water lines
  • Treat the well for microbial contaminants
  • Test (Apply for a free testing voucher)

Test

After you have assessed the damage to your well and taken the needed actions, it's time to test the water. 

Contact an accredited laboratory to coordinate sample collection and analysis. 

Find an Accredited Laboratory



Additional Resources  

Education
Contact domestic.wells@dhsoha.state.or.us with questions.