Water Quality Testing

Our on-site testing laboratory is certified for bacteria and nitrate analysis. Clean, safe drinking water is one of the most important elements of good health. Testing well water on an annual basis is one of the easiest things a private well owner can do to take care of their health and the health of their loved ones.

Test kits are available during regular business hours. Cost is $25 per sample. Samples are accepted Monday - Wednesday from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Other sampling times may be arranged.


Total Coliform (Bacteria) and E-Coli Testing

Total coliforms are indicator organisms used to detect bacterial contamination in drinking water. Their presence indicates that a pathway for contamination exists and organisms that cause disease may be present.  The presence of E.coli in a drinking water sample is an indication of fecal contamination of the water supply.

Surface Water Testing (Beach Monitoring)

Surface water may be tested for E. coli. The only natural habitat of E. coli is the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals. The recreational water guideline is less than 235 MPN/100 mL.   An advisory is recommended between and 235 MPN/100 mL and 1000 MPN/100 mL.   A closure is recommended at greater than 1000 MPN/100 mL.

Nitrates

High nitrate levels in drinking water pose a risk to infants. Infants under six months of age who are fed water or formula made with water that is high in nitrate can develop a condition called methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome.” State and federal laws set the maximum allowable level for nitrate-nitrogen in public drinking water at 10 milligrams per liter (ppm).

PFAS/PFOA

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1950s.  The Wisconsin DNR has completed some initial rounds of voluntary municipal PFAS testing.   To view the results visit the Voluntary PFAS Sampling Project Site.

Homeowners interested in testing their well water for PFAS can order test kits from certified laboratory.

List of Laboratories Certified for PFAS/PFOA analysis.

Other Contaminants

There are a variety of other contaminants that can make their way into your water supply.     If you suspect your water has been contaminated or would like further testing there are several certified laboratories in Wisconsin.