AUDIENCE: Homeowners/governmental officials/building contractors

BACKGROUND: The 1980 census figures show that 13 million households, 37 million people, use private wells as their potable water source. Another 74 million Americans drink ground water supplied by water utility wells.

These wells and pumping systems are constructed by professional water well and pump installation contractors who have specialized knowledge regarding local geology, hydrogeology, construction techniques, and proper sizing of equipment. Recognizing that it takes specialized knowledge to install these systems properly so that the public is protected, 39 states have instituted statewide licensing programs for water well contractors and seven states administer statewide registration programs. In addition, 23 states also separately license or register pump installation contractors.

ISSUE: Should states license pump installation contractors to help ensure that homeowners are provided with a safe drinking water supply and the ground water resource is protected?

POSITION: An understanding of hydrogeology, the construction of the water well and its operation, and methods for determining the water requirements for a household are prerequisites to selecting and installing the proper pump system. Any regulation of this function should take into consideration the unique qualifications an individual must possess.

In addition, any time the well seal is broken, such as in pump servicing, the potential exists for contaminant introduction into the water source. As such it is imperative that proper disinfection follow to ensure a safe, potable water supply. The pump contractor is a vital factor if this is to be accomplished.

The National Ground Water Association (NGWA), recognizing the particular skills necessary, administers a certification test for individuals doing pump installation and servicing. In addition, a correspondence course and appropriate texts are available through NGWA on this technology.

Safe quality water in ample quantity can be assured through recognition of the interdisciplinary nature of this occupation and the formulation of a licensing program in every state that recognizes this fact.

CONTACT: Chris Reimer, NGWA, 800/ 551-7379

REFERENCES: Henderson, G. E., Planning for an Individual Water System, Athens, Georgia,

American Association for Vocational Instructional Materials, 1982.

McCray, Kevin, "Tapping the Water Market," American Demographics, 9:42, January 1987.

National Ground Water Association File, Pump Installers Licensing.

National Ground Water Association Certification Brochure.

Water Systems Handbook. Chicago, Water Systems Council, 1983.