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Private wells are primarily unregulated (although a few states are beginning to regulate), so it is up to the homeowner to make sure the water coming from their well is safe for consumption. While most wells are only required to be tested when they are originally dug or a house is sold, the EPA recommends homeowners test their well yearly to make sure they meet potability standards. Further testing for other EPA Primary concerns should also be done on a bi-annual basis to rule out any outside contamination.

Public water suppliers (city water) are responsible for testing the water quality as it leaves the water treatment facility. But this treated water runs through potentially miles of pipes throughout the distribution system - some of which may contain lead and copper, not to mention many systems are very old and thus starting to develop cracks which could potentially expose this water to other contamination.

According to the EPA, Lead can enter drinking water through corrosion of plumbing materials, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder. However, new homes are also at risk: even legally "lead-free" plumbing may contain up to eight percent lead.

The pursuit of new energy resources to replace our dependence on foreign oil is quickly becoming the 21st century natural gas gold rush. In the race to find new resources, have we potentially endangered another one of our natural resources? Homeowners across the country are becoming more aware of the affects of gas well drilling and the potential contamination issues relating to their private well water. Do you know what's in your water?