By following the mental models approach, we have created an evidence-based
communication ready to be tested for impact. This postcard concisely addresses key points that predict well water testing in our audience, residents of majority African-American
neighborhoods on the edges of cities and towns, without municipal water service. This postcard can be used as a source of information, a reminder and a cue to action. In Wake County, NC, these underbounded communities have been shown to be at greater risk for drinking water contaminated with bacteria and lead than those on nearby municipal water. In these
communities, similar to many others across North America, rates of well testing are low, which is a barrier to the public health goal of protecting against health risks from drinking
contaminated water. Surveying other communities could guide adaptation of this
communication for additional audiences. This evidence-based communication material, and others like it, can become part of the multi-pronged approaches needed to increase rates of well water testing and other well stewardship behaviors. Ultimately, effectively promoting well testing is one tool among many needed to reach a more equitable distribution of drinking water risks.
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