Well Water Testing
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First things first-- get a well assessment
Prior to having your water tested you should assess potential contamination sources to the well. The Great Lakes Rural Community Assistance Program (RCAP) is partnering with the SWCD to provide free private well assessments. Learn more and apply for an assessment here: http://www.greatlakesrcap.org/. What is a water test? A water test is a process by which elements (such as fuels, solvents, herbicides, and metals) are isolated and analyzed in a sample. A water test is typically performed on a private water supply, such as a well. Why have your water tested? You are responsible. Many people in the United States receive their water from private ground water wells. EPA regulations that protect public drinking water systems do not apply to privately owned wells. As a result, owners of private wells are responsible for ensuring the their water is safe from contaminants. Well water can become contaminated at any time without your knowledge. Common causes include a break of the well or septic system, livestock waste, agricultural and lawn chemicals, and naturally occurring elements. Only through testing can you be assured of a continued supply of clean, safe water. The Private Well Class- Free Well Care Classes for private well owners- http://privatewellclass.org/ The National Groundwater Association- General information, videos, lessons, and resources for well owners- http://www.wellowner.org/ Indiana State Department of Health- Water Supply information- Information on certified labs, ISDH Laboratory and other great information- http://www.in.gov/isdh/20408.htm Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water- Groundwater/Wells Frequently Asked Questions- Information on well construction, well drillers, and water rights - http://www.state.in.us/dnr/water/3482.htm Indiana Geological Survey-Groundwater and geology of Indiana- https://igs.indiana.edu/groundwater/ Other testing options:
State Department of Health water test kit form. For a list of Indiana Certified Drinking Water Laboratories, click here. Hamilton County Health Department Well Drinking Water Testing
All new or repaired wells in Hamilton County are required to be permitted. Once a well is drilled or repaired it must be sampled to ensure a safe drinking water supply. The Hamilton County Health Department will sample the well using the Indiana State Health Department laboratory or applicants may use a state certified laboratory for water sample analysis. Visit the Hamilton County Well Water Supply Program website for more info or call (317) 776-8500. |
How to get your water tested?
Samples must be collected according to a specific procedure and in special bottles. Stop by the SWCD office in Noblesville to pick up sampling bottles and instructions. Tests and Fees
Nitrate/Inorganic Suite Cost $35 Includes nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, chloride, sulfate, fluoride, soluble phosphorus, silica, and conductivity. Pesticide Immunoassay Screens Cost $70 Detects major herbicides such as atrazine (Aatrex), simazine (Princep), alachlor (Lasso), metolachlor (Dual), and acetochlor (Harness). Metals Cost $85 Includes antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, lead, selenium, aluminum, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, nickel, sodium, calcium, strontium, cobalt, magnesium, potassium, silica, and vanadium. + Handling Fee $5 Service fee of $70 if we take the water sample. Discount: A $10 discount will be applied to each additional test beyond the first one, when ordered at the same time. |
