Nebraska Well Water
Last reviewed October 29, 2026
Overview
Private wells supply water to many Nebraska households. Because they are generally not regulated like public systems under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, testing and wellhead protection are the owner’s responsibility.
Hydrogeology & what it means
Nebraska relies heavily on the High Plains (Ogallala) aquifer. The documented regional concerns below indicate what is worth testing for — not what any individual well contains.
Documented regional concerns
- Nitrate from agricultural and septic influence, especially in farmed areas.
- Naturally occurring uranium in some aquifers.
- Naturally occurring arsenic in parts of the state — odorless and tasteless, so only testing reveals it.
- Hard water from carbonate (limestone/dolomite) aquifers.
These are documented possibilities, not a reading of your well
Frequently asked questions
What should well owners in Nebraska test for?
A practical panel for Nebraska private wells includes Total coliform bacteria, Nitrate (as N), pH, Uranium, Arsenic, Total hardness. Test bacteria and nitrate at least annually and use a state-certified laboratory; confirm local recommendations with your state health department and University of Nebraska–Lincoln Cooperative Extension.
Are private wells regulated in Nebraska?
Private wells are generally not covered by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, though Nebraska or local rules may apply to construction, permitting, or testing. Public-system limits such as EPA MCLs are useful reference points, not automatic legal limits for your well.