Health department offers reduced water testing rates
The Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center will offer reduced water testing rates in observance of National Ground Water Awareness Week. Between March 7 and 18, the department is offering a reduced rate for well water testing for private well owners.
During this time, the normal $18 analysis fee for testing for bacteria and nitrates will be reduced to $12. Sterile test bottles and sampling instructions are available at the Lake County Central Permit Facility; the main Health Department office, 3010 Grand Ave. in Waukegan; or at 16 separate township or municipal offices located throughout Lake County.
For a list of locations, call (847) 377-8020, or visit health.lakecountyil.gov/Population/EnvironmentalServices/Documents/WATER%20SAMPLE%20KIT%20PARTICIPANTS%20120814.pdf.
Water sampling kits can also be mailed for $15.
All collected water samples must be brought to the Lake County Central Permit Facility, 500 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Results of water samples are ready for homeowners in approximately three working days.
If residents are uncomfortable with collecting these samples themselves, Health Department staff is available to go out to homes to collect the sample for a $56 fee, which includes an inspection of the well and the lab analysis for bacteria and nitrates.
"About 90,000 Lake County residents rely on groundwater from aquifers to supply their private wells," said Executive Director Tony Beltran. "The Health Department encourages all users of private wells to take this time to have their drinking water tested, and to test it at least annually to see if it meets the minimum drinking water standards."
National Groundwater Awareness Week is an annual observance sponsored by the National Groundwater Association to raise awareness of the importance of groundwater as a valuable resource, and the need for yearly water testing and well maintenance to prevent waterborne illness.
For details on water testing, contact the Health Department at (847) 377-8020 or email HealthEHS@lakecountyil.gov.