Free well water testing clinics in Otter Tail County
News | Published on July 7, 2026 at 11:20am EDT | Author: frazeevergas
0Five clinics are scheduled throughout the summer
Residents in and around Otter Tail County can get their private well water tested for free at upcoming clinics hosted by area Soil and Water Conservation Districts in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA).
Nitrate contamination is one of the most common threats to drinking water in rural areas. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless. But at high levels, it poses serious health risks, particularly for infants and pregnant women.
Contamination is most common in agricultural regions with sandy soils, karst geology, or fractured bedrock aquifers. Wells that are shallow, damaged, or older are especially vulnerable.
Federal health guidelines consider water with nitrate levels above 10 mg/L unsafe to drink.
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends annual testing for nitrate and other contaminants in all private wells. Municipal water supplies are tested and treated regularly, but private well owners are responsible for their own water safety.
Testing water is quick, easy, and confidential. Just follow these steps:
1. Run cold tap for 5–10 minutes
2. Collect at least one cup of water in a clean, sealed container
3. Keep the sample cool
4. Bring it to the clinic during open hours
These events are made possible through Minnesota’s Clean Water Fund. Clinic attendees receive on-the-spot results and personalized guidance at no cost.
Protecting Minnesota’s drinking water resources has been a defining priority of the Walz administration, reflected in sustained support for practical, locally driven conservation. A cornerstone of that work is the Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program, which has certified more than 1.3 million acres of farmland in practices that reduce runoff, protect waterways, and strengthen long-term soil health. This progress demonstrates the administration’s commitment to safeguarding Minnesota’s natural resources while supporting farmers and rural communities.
Otter Tail County Well
Water Testing Clinics
July 9- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Adley Event Center, 201 W Main Street, Parkers Prairie
July 16- 11 a.m.–1 p.m., West Otter Tail SWCD Office, 506 Western Ave, Fergus Falls
July 23- 11 a.m.–1 p.m., East Otter Tail SWCD Office, 801 Jenny Ave SW, Perham
Aug. 13- 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Lions Community Center, 109 1 st Ave SE, Verndale
Aug. 20- 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Menahga City Hall, 115 2nd St NE, Menahga