Indiana Farmstead Wells: Checking Well Condition per Purdue Extension

Purdue Cooperative Extension Service factsheet WQ-22, "Indiana Farmstead Assessment Factsheet 1: Drinking Water Well Condition" (Swoveland, Basch, Brichford, Janssen; dated 11/95). It is an older document; rules it cites may have changed. Only stated points are included.

Key points from the page

Casing: the gap between casing and borehole is sealed with grout (cement or bentonite). Inspect casing for holes or cracks; if it moves when pushed, it may not keep contaminants out.
The page says at least 12 inches of casing must extend above final grade (cited as 310 IAC 16).
Cap and wellhead: a tight-fitting, vermin-proof cap with a screened vent facing the ground; wiring through conduit; divert surface water pooling around the wellhead.
Pump: older pumps are more likely to leak lubricating oils into the well. Record pump maintenance intervals. Well equipment including the pump typically needs mechanical attention every 10 to 20 years from a qualified driller or pump installer.
In areas of shallow (less than 20 feet to) fractured bedrock, the page suggests listening for water running down into the well to check the casing; the pump should not be running.
Backflow: install an anti-backflow device (one-way valve) at the hydrant where a hose may sit submerged in liquid.
Well types: dug wells highest risk; driven-point wells moderate to high; drilled wells (typically 4 to 8 inches in diameter) are the common farm type.
Testing: the landowner is responsible; minimum annual tests for bacteria and nitrate, using an EPA-certified laboratory.
Wells unused for more than five years or in disrepair must be sealed (cited as IC 25-39).

Pressure tanks: the factsheet does not mention them.

Not verified: whether the cited Indiana statutes and separation distances are still current; check with Indiana authorities. Pump sizing was not covered.

General information only. Not health, plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with your county health department and a licensed driller or pump installer.