Cape Cod residents who rely on private wells have just received a helping hand from local health officials.
In a fresh move to address water safety, the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment is now providing free water quality testing to homeowners who use private wells. It’s a rare and valuable offer—each test is worth over $400.
The initiative is backed by a collaboration with Tetra Tech, a leading environmental consulting firm. Testing includes screenings for contaminants such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and several other pollutants.
These harmful substances can creep into drinking water through both natural and human-caused factors—septic systems, chemical spills, and even firefighting foams are all culprits.
Private wells are the primary water source for roughly one in five households on Cape Cod. That’s no small number.
“Private well owners are their own water utility,” said Jay Gardiner, Director of the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment. “This program is about empowering residents with the tools and knowledge they need to safeguard their drinking water and protect their families’ health.”
He went on to highlight the broader impact: “As an added benefit, the program will help us build a clearer picture of our region’s private well water quality while giving homeowners peace of mind.”
Officials stressed that many water contaminants can’t be detected by taste, smell, or sight, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Exposure to such pollutants can lead to serious health concerns, often without early warning signs.
The offer of free testing comes as growing attention is placed on the long-term health risks of chemical exposure. It’s a proactive step by local authorities—and a chance for Cape Cod homeowners to get some peace of mind, without the hefty price tag.
