Friday, September 5, 2025 |
Photo – SER Conservation District logo – Courtesy SER Conservation District
The Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District offers to help residents test their wells for dangerous chemicals.
On Wednesday morning, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality announced the discovery of elevated groundwater arsenic levels in the Cow Creek Station subdivision and surrounding areas, approximately eight miles south of Saratoga.
Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District Manager Joe Parsons explained that his agency tested water from several wells in the area, confirmed the presence of arsenic, and notified the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, prompting the public announcement.
DEQ states that long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic may cause skin damage, problems with circulatory systems, and increased risk of cancer.
Parsons said the dangerous chemical can be found naturally across the county, adding that the Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District will help homeowners test their wells for contamination.
The Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District stocks a handful of well testing kits at its Saratoga office. Parsons said homeowners may purchase one of the kits for $125 to test their water for arsenic. The completed tests are then taken to the Wyoming Department of Agriculture Analytical Services Laboratory in Laramie.
Parsons said the well testing kits come with easy-to-understand instructions. Samples must be kept cool and delivered to the Laramie Department of Agriculture laboratory within 24 hours.
Parsons said 16 wells in the Cow Creek Station area have tested positive for elevated arsenic levels. The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality recommends using ion exchange or reverse osmosis systems to remove arsenic from drinking water. Parsons added that the appropriate system depends on several factors, including cost and household needs.
For more information about well testing, or to obtain a testing kit, call the Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District at 326-8156, or visit the office at 101 Cypress Ave in Saratoga.
