Sioux County residents with private wells can receive free water testing and may qualify for financial assistance to address certain well maintenance and improvement needs.
Zoning Director Shane Walter said the county’s private well grant program provides testing at no cost to property owners. During a visit, he collects water samples and assesses the well’s condition and compliance with applicable requirements.
Samples are sent to a laboratory in Cherokee. Once results are available, the county shares them with the owner and explains what they mean.
The program also offers reimbursement for certain work on existing wells. Walter said up to $700 is available for plugging an older well, with the work required to be completed by a certified professional.
Assistance may also be available for well rehabilitation and shock chlorination. Reimbursement amounts depend on the work involved and the program’s requirements.
The grant does not cover drilling a new well.
Walter encourages property owners to contact him about their needs and learn what assistance may be available.
“It’s a really good idea for those folks with wells to reach out, and if they have some needs related to that well, I’d be happy to visit with them to let them know what we can do.”
Interest in the program increased after the county included information in property tax mailings. Walter said the response brought calls from across the county.
Private well owners interested in testing or assistance can contact Walter through the Sioux County Zoning Office.
