Project Description Narrative:
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element present in trace levels in groundwater throughout Wisconsin. It has various negative health effects, and there have been studies linking arsenic to an increased risk of skin cancer and tumors in the kidneys, liver, and lungs, as well as depression, high blood pressure, circulatory problems, diabetes, and bypass surgery.
In Wisconsin, 1.36 million residents get their drinking water from private wells, of which 6-10% have arsenic levels higher than what has been deemed safe. Though water testing is available, it is not required, and because results are delivered in different ways and can be confusing, action isn’t always taken to remedy the issue.
This study aims to increase arsenic well water testing and post-testing outreach, identify key indicators and barriers in testing and well-owner behavior change, and create and share a model system of change to ensure safe drinking water for all Wisconsin residents.
Community partners: Wisconsin Division of Public Health, Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Health, Winnebago County Health Department, Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey, Center for Watershed Science and Education, University of Wisconsin-Extension, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing