The two most common water contaminants are coliform bacteria and nitrate. Municipal water systems regularly test for these contaminants, but if you have a private well, testing for them is up to you.

Photo caption: The Sewerage and Water Board plant in New Orleans, pictured Aug. 18, 2022. Photo courtesy Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator. Dr. Stephen Giepert, his wife Alathea, and their two ...