Land Conservation sponsors upcoming Well Water Testing Program
Do you own a private well within Taylor County? Then you are eligible to test your water at a reduced rate for basic homeowner concerns and/or metals. Taylor County Land Conservation Department’s (LCD) once-a-year discounted testing program is scheduled for early September. This strictly voluntary program helps you invest in your family’s long-term health as many water concerns may be unnoticeable.
The LCD is offering two packages for $40 each: Homeowners Package (regular $68 + s/h) and the Metals Test (regular $60 + s/h). Designated sample bottles for the tests can be picked at the LCD Office in Medford at 925 Donald St., Room 104 during the week of September 9 – 13. Pick up times are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition, residents and landowners may also obtain bottles on Friday, September 13 at Rib Lake Village Hall from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. and at Gilman Village Hall from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Participants must then fill the bottles, per directions, on Monday, September 16 and then return them to the LCD that day. Collection will be at the Medford LCD office from 8:00 – 4:30, Rib Lake from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., and Gilman from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
The Homeowner’s Package tests for coliform bacteria, nitrate, pH, alkalinity, hardness, chloride, conductivity, and corrosiveness. The Metal Test checks levels of arsenic, calcium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, sulfate, and zinc.
Testing is performed by the Water and Environmental Analysis Lab at UW-Stevens Point. Residents should receive a report by mail by the end of October. Those with positive coliform samples will be notified by the laboratory within a few days.
Testing is recommended for private wells annually for coliform bacteria and nitrates, every 5-10 years for metals, or any time there is a change in how the water looks, tastes, or smells.
For more information, contact the Taylor County Land Conservation Department at 715/748-1469 or email pamela.holz@co.taylor.wi.us.
