County Offers Free Well Test Kits, Updates Water Basin Report

The Lewis and Clark County Water Quality Protection District maintained an updated public information page on November 5, 2025 that included the UM Basin conditions report and program notices about free arsenic and uranium test kits available through county programs. The district webpage lists the WQPD Board of Directors, resources aimed at private well owners, and a notice that the next board meeting will be held as a hybrid session on December 2, 2025.

The posting consolidates material county officials say is intended to help residents assess groundwater quality and access testing. For households reliant on private wells, arsenic and uranium remain contaminants of concern in many parts of Montana, and the availability of free or low cost test kits through county outreach programs reduces barriers to detecting these contaminants. The county specifically directs residents to the WQPD page on lccountymt.gov for contact details and instructions on obtaining test kits and information about groundwater testing services.

The scheduled December 2 meeting adds a governance dimension to the practical resources. Board meetings serve as a formal setting where program priorities, budget considerations, and outreach strategies for the Water Quality Protection District can be discussed and reviewed. For residents and civic groups focused on water safety, participation at that meeting offers a direct channel to ask questions about program scope, distribution of test kits, and follow up steps when tests indicate contamination.

Local impacts include potential increases in testing among private well owners, earlier identification of elevated arsenic and uranium levels, and better informed decisions about treatment or alternative water sources. The WQPD materials also help local contractors, public health staff, and community organizations coordinate outreach and remediation planning. Lewis and Clark County residents seeking testing or more information are advised to consult the county Water Quality Protection District page for the latest resources and meeting details.