Water Quality Testing

Polk County Health Center provides fresh water testing for all Polk County residents at the cost of $10.00 per test. If residents have private wells, they may obtain a test kit with instructions from the Health Department. Once the water is received from the individual, testing is performed to isolate bacterial organisms that may be hazardous to the drinking water. After 48 hours, results are posted and mailed to the individuals. If there are problems with the sample, instructions on how to treat the well are sent to the homeowner. Samples should be taken on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. The bacterial kit tests for coli-form and e-Coli bacteria.

If you have any questions or wish to obtain a test kit, please contact us at 417-326-7250

When To Have Your Well Tested

At a minimum, check your well every spring to make sure there are no mechanical problems; test it once each year for total coli-form bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels. If you suspect other contaminants, you should test for those as well. However, spend time identifying potential problems as these tests can be expensive. The best way to start is to consult a local expert, such as the local health department, about local contaminants of concern. You should also have your well tested if:

·         There are known problems with well water in your area

·         You have experienced problems near your well (i.e., flooding, land disturbances, and nearby waste disposal sites)

·         You replace or repair any part of your well system

·         You notice a change in water quality (i.e., taste, color, odor)