Winona's Wellhead Protection Plan Brochure Winona's Wellhead Protection Plan Brochure The City of Winona has completed the development of our Wellhead Protection Plan. This plan is designed to protect the groundwater aquifers that supply water to our municipal drinking water wells. The plan identifies potential sources of contamination that could pollute local groundwater wells and enter the community’s water supply. The ultimate goal of this plan is help ensure that Winona continues to provide its residents with a safe and abundant supply of clean drinking water for generations to come.

 Wells can become polluted when harmful substances get into the groundwater and make their way towards the municipal wells. Water from these wells can become dangerous to drink when the level of pollution rises above health standards.  Fortunately, the City of Winona’s water supply currently meets (and exceeds) all State and Federal drinking water standards. The City regularly samples the water from these wells and provides an annual Water Quality Report.

 The Wellhead Protection Plan can only be successful if residents play a role in helping to protect the aquifer. To help us implement our plan, you can do the following:

• Help identify land uses and potential sources of contamination on your property (wells, tanks, septic systems, hazardous wastes, etc.).
• Make sure any potential sources of contamination under your control meet local, state, and federal regulations.
• Seal any unused wells on your property, according to Minnesota Well Code. For more information visit the Minnesota Department of Health website.  Owners of active wells should refer to the Well Owner’s Handbook  for proper construction, maintenance, and sampling information.
• Use hazardous products only as directed and dispose of them properly when no longer needed. Visit the Winona County website for information on handling and disposal of wastes, including information on the household hazardous waste collection facility, located in here in Winona. 
• Practice proper turf management techniques and avoid over-fertilization of your lawns and gardens. Visit the University of Minnesota Extension website  for more information.
• Report spills (or illegal dumping) of hazardous wastes, fuels, or chemicals to law enforcement.

 If you wish to view a copy of the Wellhead Protection Plan, contact Public Works at (507) 457-8269. 

Winona's Wellhead Protection Brochure