On Tuesday, Sept. 28, the Washington County Board of Supervisors approved a 28E Agreement with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to deal with permits for private well construction, reconstruction and well assessments.

Jason Taylor, the environmental health coordinator, explained that that last agreement dated to 1994 and, in essence, is for well assessments, especially to determine if there has been any contamination. He cited an example of a chemical truck problem in Wellman last year that required examination and testing regarding contamination.

Another concern is the presence of any underground storage tanks within 1,000 feet of a 500 gallon per minute water well. Taylor noted that there are some wells in the county that are more than 1,000 feet in depth. The discussion included concerns about how long contamination may remain, with Taylor noting the DNR position has been “once contaminated, always contaminated.”

There also was discussion about possible contamination clearance at sites, with more information for future meetings. The agreement with the DNR had previously been approved by the county Board of Health.

The agreement provides for cooperation between the county and the DNR for well construction permits ($100 fee to the county), as well as well assessments by proper personnel. There is also a $25 fee to the DNR. All are paid by the private property owner.