September 26th was World Environmental Health Day. The spaces we live, work and play are integral to the health of our community. Green County Public Health is here to support community members and the environmental health of Green County.

Community members who have private well water should test their water at least once per year. Drinking water can become contaminated and contain elements that are harmful for human health. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, almost 18% of water samples from Green County private wells had elevated Nitrate levels, whereas the average for the state is lower at 10%. Green County Public Health offers well water testing kits to Green County residents. There are several different water testing packages available that test for different contaminants. Individuals who meet certain criteria can receive free water testing from the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene. To learn about eligibility, testing packages, or to schedule a time to pick up a testing kit, please call our department at (608) 328-9390.

In addition to well water testing kits, Green County Public Health also has radon testing kits available for community members. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. About 50% of homes tested for radon in Green County were above the level at which intervention is recommended. Testing is inexpensive and easy, and it will only take a few minutes of your time. To learn more about radon testing or to plan a time to come get a radon test kit please call Green County Public Health at (608) 328-9390.

Green County has many old homes, and with old homes there is often lead paint present. Other lead hazards can also be present in homes, but lead poisoning is preventable. In 2019, about 4% of children in Green County who were tested had elevated blood lead levels. Lead poisoning can damage almost every organ in the body, and is especially harmful for childhood development. Blood lead testing is available through our department for children ages 6 months through 5 years old. In addition, our staff conduct environmental assessments of homes where children with elevated blood lead levels live. Our staff will work with the family to prevent further exposure to lead.

This Wisconsin Department of Health Services recently released the 2021 County Environmental Health Profiles, which includes data and information about health in each county. Community members can view the Green County report by visiting https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/epht/profile.htm and clicking on “Green County”. We encourage the public to follow us on Facebook and visit our website, http://www.gcpublichealth.org, to learn more about environmental health and the services we offer.