by Kevin Zimmermann
TOWN OF SHERMAN, WI (WHBL) – Wisconsin water quality has been under the magnifier for issues such as PFAs and other pollutants, but an ongoing study by Sheboygan County’s UW Extension Community Development Educator Kevin Struck shows there are other, immediate concerns locally.
Each year Kevin conducts one well water testing event in a Sheboygan County town, and in 2019 that was the Town of Sherman. The results showed coliform bacteria in nearly a quarter of the 80 samples submitted. That compares with a statewide average of 15%. While that’s troubling, only 2 of the 19 contaminated wells showed the presence of dangerous E. coli bacteria. Regardless, the presence of any coliform shows a pathway for harmful organisms exists.
Other results included 5% exceeded nitrate limits, 25% exceeded limits for naturally-occurring arsenic but none were excessively high.
Private well owners are advised to test their wells every 15 months to assure quality, but 37% of Town of Sherman residents hadn’t tested their wells in at least 10 years.
Those with questions should contact the UW Extension at 459-5900.
