<p>Participant demographic data.</p>

Samples were analyzed for total coliforms and <i>E. coli</i> with U.S. EPA Method 1604. Data were analyzed using Fisher’s Exact test and logistic regression. Forty-three percent (34/79) of the sampled wells were positive for total coliforms and 10% (8/79) were positive for <i>E. coli</i>.

Total coliform presence was significantly associated with county (<i>p</i> = 0.02), region (<i>p</i> < 0.01), and well condition description (<i>p</i> = 0.02). <i>E. coli</i> presence was significantly associated with region (<i>p</i> < 0.01), geological province type (<i>p</i> < 0.01), county (<i>p</i> = 0.04), and wellhead cover type (<i>p</i> = 0.03). Based on the multivariable logistic regression, wells that were described as being in okay or fair condition had significantly lower odds of total coliforms compared to wells described as being in good or excellent condition (<i>p</i> = 0.03), suggesting a lack of understanding about actual well conditions.

There was a significant decrease in the odds of <i>E. coli</i> presence as precipitation levels 14 days prior to sampling increased (<i>p</i> = 0.02)<i>.</i> These results emphasize the importance of private well water testing, particularly for farmers.</p></div>