Introduction

The quality of groundwater impacts not only our health but also society and the economy. Groundwater contamination can lower property values, tarnish a community’s image, hinder economic development, and diminish the overall quality of life. Clean water at a reasonable cost is essential, and in many areas, groundwater is the only economical water source available. However, once contaminated, groundwater is difficult and costly to clean. Even small contamination sites can cost thousands of dollars to remediate.

Importance of Groundwater Testing

Private water supplies, such as wells at individual homes, are not regulated for water quality. It is the well owner’s responsibility to ensure safe drinking water. Although some regions require water quality testing at property transfer, it is recommended that well owners test their water periodically. Comprehensive drinking water analyses can be expensive and are generally unnecessary for private well owners. However, routine testing for common contaminants like total coliform bacteria, nitrates, and lead is advisable. These contaminants can enter well water through agricultural activities, septic systems, household chemicals, plumbing, and industrial operations.

Indicators of Water Quality

A water’s taste, smell, or color is not necessarily an indicator of water quality. Many hazardous contaminants are undetectable to the senses, and the only way to detect most pollutants is through testing.

Hydraulic Fracturing and Groundwater Testing

Before hydraulic fracturing operations begin, the American Petroleum Institute (API – HF1) recommends a baseline assessment program, including sampling nearby water wells. Freshwater wells should also be sampled after fracturing operations. For instance, Colorado requires sampling certain water wells as part of its regulatory program. In Pennsylvania, regulations presumptively place the burden of proof on oil and gas companies to demonstrate that they have not caused groundwater contamination if a complaint arises.

Proper Sampling and Analysis Protocols

To obtain valid results, proper sampling and analysis protocols must be followed. Contact a state or EPA-certified laboratory for sampling containers and instructions. Proper protocols may include:

• Using appropriate containers and seals
• Purging the well before sample capture
• Collecting samples before water treatment equipment
• Following sample container filling procedures
• Adhering to storage and holding time requirements
• Utilizing appropriate analysis methods
• Following quality control/quality assurance protocols

Sampling should be conducted by someone familiar with sampling procedures, and analyses should be done by an accredited laboratory using appropriate methods. Local Health Departments, State Water Quality Agencies, or County Extension Agents can provide lists of qualified laboratories.

Recommended Constituents for Baseline Analysis

For landowners with oil and gas operations, professional sampling and analysis of groundwater for specific constituents are crucial. The following is a basic list of constituents to consider for analysis before oil and gas operations:

• Major cations and anions
• pH
• Specific Conductance
• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
• BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylene), Diesel Range Organics (DRO), Gasoline Range Organics (GRO)
• Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons or Oil & Grease (HEM)
• Arsenic
• Barium
• Calcium
• Chromium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Selenium
• Boron
• Sodium
• Chloride
• Potassium
• Bicarbonate
• Dissolved Methane

Post-Hydraulic Fracturing Analysis

After hydraulic fracturing, sampling and analysis should be conducted on groundwater for chemicals listed in the record of chemicals used during the process. This is important because many chemicals used in fracturing degrade, oxidize, or modify during the process. An alternative analysis for TDS and Dissolved Methane should be conducted to minimize costs for the landowner. An increase in these constituents could indicate the need for further, more comprehensive sampling and analysis.

Only trained professionals, such as toxicologists or physicians, can determine if your water is safe to consume. Information obtained from this blog or any other website should not be used to make decisions about the safety or drinkability of your water. Regular testing and following proper protocols are essential steps in ensuring the quality and safety of groundwater, especially for private well owners.