What is one indicator of safe drinking water from a well?

The absence of coliform bacteria is a key indicator of safe drinking water from a well. Coliform bacteria, particularly E. coli, can indicate potential contamination by fecal matter, which can carry harmful pathogens. Testing for these bacteria is a common practice to ensure that the water supply is safe for human consumption.

Safe drinking water should be free of harmful microorganisms, and the presence of coliform bacteria suggests that the water could be contaminated, posing health risks. Regular monitoring for these bacteria is essential in maintaining safe water quality, especially in private wells, which may not be subject to the same rigorous testing standards as municipal water supplies.

High mineral content, cloudiness, and low water temperature do not directly correlate to the water's safety for drinking purposes. High mineral content can lead to hard water issues but may not indicate biological contamination. Cloudiness could result from various physical factors or particulate matter that doesn’t necessarily relate to the presence of pathogens. Low water temperature alone doesn't provide information on microbial safety and might only suggest physical conditions rather than the water quality standards necessary for consumption.