(KIWA Staff Photo)Sioux County, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — Sioux County residents with private wells can receive free water testing and may qualify for financial assistance for certain well maintenance and improvement needs.
Sioux County Zoning Director Shane Walter says the county’s private well grant program provides testing at no cost to property owners. During a site visit, he collects water samples and evaluates the well’s condition and compliance with applicable requirements.
The samples are sent to a laboratory in Cherokee for analysis. Once the results are available, the county shares them with the owner and explains the findings.
The program also offers reimbursement for certain work on existing wells. Walter says property owners may receive up to $700 for plugging an older well, though the work must be completed by a certified professional.
Financial assistance may also be available for well rehabilitation and shock chlorination. Reimbursement amounts vary based on the type of work performed and program requirements.
The grant program does not cover the cost of drilling a new well.
Walter encourages property owners to contact him to discuss their needs and learn what assistance may be available.
Walter says interest in the program increased after information about it was included in county property tax mailings, generating calls from throughout Sioux County.
Private well owners interested in testing or assistance can contact Walter through the Sioux County Zoning Office.
