Lake County offering reduced fee for well water testing

In observance of National Ground Water Awareness Week, the Lake County Health Department is offering a reduced well water testing fee for homeowners who use well water as their primary source of drinking water.

From March 9 to March 20, the normal $18 fee for testing for bacteria and nitrates will be reduced to $12.

"We encourage private well owners to do annual water testing and well maintenance to help protect their families from waterborne illness," said Mark Pfister, health department executive director.

Sterile test bottles and sampling instructions are available at the Lake County Central Permit Facility, 500 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, the health department's headquarters, 3010 Grand Ave. in Waukegan, and 18 township or municipal offices located throughout Lake County. To find a location nearest you, call (847) 377-8020 or visit www.lakecountyil.gov. Water sampling kits can also be mailed for $15.

Results of water samples are ready for homeowners in approximately three business days.