Public Notice - Private Well Owners
Notice to Flood Affected Private Well Owners - Test Your Drinking Water
Overland flooding can introduce bacteria, including E.coli, into private wells, making water unsafe to drink.
If your home uses a private well that has been impacted by flooding:
1. Do not drink the water.
2. Boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking.
3. Continue boiling water until test results confirm your water is safe.
4. Wait until flood waters have fully receded and then test your well
For more information: Flooding & Well Water Safety
Free Water Testing for Flood-Impacted Private Well Owners
In response to spring 2026 flooding, the Manitoba Government has increased the private well water testing subsidy to 100% for flood-impacted private well owners.
1. One (1) bact5eriological test per household is fully subsidized
2. Applies to samples submitted between June 15 and August 31, 2026
3. Testing includes total coliforms and E.coli
Eligibility: Only flood-impacted private wells are eligible, and a verification form is required with sample submission.
If test results show bacteria
1. you will be notified as soon as possible
2. you will receive instruction on how to disinfect your well; and
3. a free follow-up test will be provided to confirm the water is safe after treatment.
Routine Private Well Testing (Non-Flood Areas)
Non-flood affected private well owners are encouraged to test their water at least once each year, or more often if:
1. your well is near a river, lake, or other surface water where water intrusion may occur; or
2. you notice a change in water colour, clarity, odour, or taste.
Manitoba's routine Private Well Testing Subsidy Program includes:
1. One subsidized test per household each year
2. Cost: $17.67 (tax included)
Duracan Laboratory administers these testing programs on behalf of the Manitoba government. In some areas, Duracan is working with Municipalities and watershed districts to improve access by distributing sampling kits and coordinating sample return.
Testing Information
Duracan Laboratory (Subsidy Program Administrator)
204-960-9995
https://www.duracan.ca/contact
Duracan can assist with:
1. accessing sample kits;
2. local pick-up/drop-off locations; and
3. submitting samples for testing.
The subsidy applies into to testing completed through Duracan. A list of other accredited laboratories is available here:
https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/water/drinking-water/lab/
Additional Resources:
More information on private wells, rtesting, and treatment is available at:
https://wellwellness.vercel.app/
https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/water/drinking-water/index.html
For general drinking water safety questions, contact the Office of Drinking Water at 204-945-5762 or odw@gov.mb.ca