Protecting Groundwater in Anoka County

In Anoka County, 330,000 residents (94%) depend on groundwater for drinking water, using about 12 billion gallons annually. Wells (residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial) that are unused and unsealed pose a significant health and safety hazard by creating a direct conduit to introduce contaminants (e.g. pesticides, nutrients, pathogens) into groundwater supplies. The highly permeable sands of the Anoka Sand Plain are likely a significant source of groundwater recharge for several of the major aquifers that supply water needs throughout the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Visit the Minnesota Department of Health webpage for more information on well sealing in MN. 

Photo: Drinking Water Supply Management Area Vulnerability in Anoka County
Photo: Pollution Sensitivity in Anoka County

Anoka County was one of the few counties in Minnesota that lacked a program to assist landowners with paying to seal unused wells. In response, ACD established a well sealing cost-share program, using a FY20 Clean Water Fund (CWF) grant. As awareness of the program grew, demand increased, highlighting the need for such financial assistance. Since 2020, ACD's well sealing program has made significant progress. ACD staff has worked with hundreds of landowners, promoting and educating on well sealing, resulting in the sealing of 67 high-priority unused wells.

Photo: Unused wells sealed with ACD's well sealing cost-share program, 2020-2024

Unused wells remain to be an issue that threatens Anoka County's groundwater resources. ACD's current CWF grant expires at the end of this year but the district has applied for another round of funding to continue the well sealing cost-share program. Through administering the last grant, ACD developed working relationships with licensed well sealers and partnerships with neighboring cities to advertise the program. ACD's goal is to build on previous successes, ensuring ongoing protection of Anoka County's groundwater resources. By focusing on high-priority wells, providing financial incentives, and leveraging existing outreach efforts, the well sealing program will mitigate groundwater contamination risks and enhance public health and safety in Anoka County in a cost effective way. For more information contact Kris Larson,Water Resource Specialist, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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