E Coli Bacteria in South Nampa

HEADS UP IN THE SOUTH NAMPA AREA!

Southwest District Health (SWDH) recently identified a cluster of private wells in an area south of Nampa --outside the city limits--that are contaminated with E. coli. Thus far, six out of eleven households with private wells have tested positive. The source for this contamination is not known at this time. Fortunately, there have been no illnesses reported in connection with this finding.

To ensure all residents who live within 1000 feet of a contaminated well are notified of potential health risks, SWDH staff and volunteers are delivering 78 information packets door-to-door today in the South Nampa area. These packets contain specific instructions to follow. SWDH has also set up a call center for residents who received packets to call with questions. The number is (208) 455-5411. Hours of operation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on August 9 and 10. Then, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday-Friday) until further notice.

1. coli bacteria is a type of fecal coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. E. coli is found in the feces of animals or some humans. If well water contains animal or human feces and the water is consumed, it can be harmful to humans and animals.  It can also be an indicator of other germs in the water.

If residents do not receive a packet, there is no need to be concerned. However, this may be a good reminder for all private well users to get their well water tested.

SWDH is working with several state agencies to identify the source(s) of this contamination. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will be conducting additional testing of selected wells and surface water over the next few weeks. They will be contacting select residents to request permission to sample their private wells at no cost to the well-owner.