Free Well Water Testing Available to New Mexico Private Well Owner

Do you rely on a private well for your drinking water? The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is expanding access to free well water testing statewide, giving private well owners an easy way to learn more about the quality of their household water.

Testing a well

What Does the Free Testing Include?

Under the expanded NMED program, New Mexicans who use private wells can bring water samples to NMED field offices throughout the state. Staff will screen samples for:

• Nitrate

• Iron

• Fluoride

The testing is designed as an initial screening to help homeowners better understand their well water. It does not replace more comprehensive testing performed by a certified laboratory. NMED notes that similar testing through commercial laboratories can cost approximately $100 to $125.

Why Test Your Well Water?

Unlike water from a public drinking water system, private well water is generally the responsibility of the property owner. Regularly learning about your well water can help you make informed decisions about your home's water use and maintenance.

Free screening is also a convenient opportunity to identify whether additional evaluation or testing may be appropriate.

How to Get Started

Property owners interested in free well water testing should contact their nearest New Mexico Environment Department field office. NMED's Water Protection Division and Environmental Health Division staff can explain the process, provide instructions, and help residents access available testing services.

Silver City NMED Office

3082 32nd Street Bypass, Suite D, Silver City, NM 88061

Phone: 575-388-1934 Fax: 575-388-3258

Office Hours:Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Closed for lunch.

Before collecting your sample, contact the office for instructions on the process and how to properly collect and submit your water sample.

A Simple Step Toward Understanding Your Well Water

For homeowners who depend on a private well, knowing more about your water quality can provide useful information for maintaining your household water system and deciding whether additional testing or treatment may be needed.

With NMED's expanded statewide program, free initial well water screening is now available to private well owners, making it easier to take that first step toward understanding your water.

Source: New Mexico Environment Department, August 13, 2026.