North Port Well Study

Residents of North Port that are not on city water obtain their water from private wells. The rapid growth in North since 2000 raised the question as to whether or not the large number of new wells was affecting the quality of the water in the aquifer or in near by existing wells.

Preliminary studies conducted in 2005 suggested that water quality has deteriorated in some areas of North Port but it has apparently improved in others. In addition, there was evidence that water quality may change in response to local rainfall more so than previous believed.

In order to determine if increasing well density and local rainfall influence changes in water quality, the Sarasota County Health Department has initiated an on-going water quality monitoring program.

Over 170 North Port residents  agreed to let us test their well water every three months for the next year. Water will be tested for chlorides, sulfates, total dissolved solids and bacteriological contamination. In addition, 47 cooperators are monitoring rainfall for this study.

• The first samples were taken April 3, 2007 and most sites have been sampled twice.
• This project is currently on-hold temporally due to staffing and budget issues but we hope to resume sampling in the spring of 2008.
• Questions may be directed to Chuck Henry, Environmental Administrator at charles_henry@doh.state.fl.us or 941-861-6133.

Updated December 31, 2007