FIGURE 1
Map of Environmental Health Capacity Partners
Note. The map shows the number and types of partners in the Environmental Health Capacity Program. The partners represent 29 states, 12 local health departments, 2 tribal jurisdictions, and 2 nonprofit organizations.
fying wells near environmental health haz- ards. Other EHC partners developed similar database tools so environmental health pro- fessionals and the public can access private well data (see Sidebar). Different agencies and groups can use these data systems to respond quickly in disaster response and choose effective interventions related to pri- vate wells. Improving Access to Information on Harmful Algal Blooms To help the public recognize HABs and understand their associated risks in recre- ational water, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (n.d.), in con- junction with the Missouri Department of
Natural Resources, created an interactive HAB reporting form. The Missouri Depart- ment of Natural Resources (n.d.) also cre- ated a HAB dashboard. Residents can use these tools to increase their awareness of HAB hazards and adopt safer behaviors. The Pennsylvania Department of Health (2025a, 2025b, 2026) also created a HAB dashboard with fact sheets to help healthcare providers and veterinarians recognize HAB exposures and treat symptoms. Enhancing Communication With Private Well Owners Environmental health professionals must communicate effectively with private well owners to encourage regular well testing and
educate them about potential waterborne risks. The Minnesota Department of Health (n.d.) supports this work and has developed well testing materials for residents—includ- ing brochures, infographics, and flyers—to explain the importance of private well testing. In Minnesota, Olmstead County Public Health Services (n.d.) uses an automated tool that lets private well owners enter well water test results into an online form that imme- diately compares them to drinking water standards. The output explains the poten- tial health implications and recommends treatment options when contaminant levels exceed standards. Well owners are encour- aged to review results with an environmental health professional; however, the automated
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October 2026 • Journal of Environmental Health
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