Health department offers reduced well water testing rates

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.

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

"Approximately 90,000 Lake County residents rely on groundwater to supply their private wells," said Mark Pfister, executive director of the Lake County Health Department. "We encourage private well owners to do annual water testing and well maintenance to help protect their families from waterborne illness."

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., 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.

All collected water samples must be brought to the Lake County Central Permit Facility between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Results of water samples are ready for homeowners in approximately three business days.

Residents also have the option to pay $60 to have a health department staff member visit their home to collect the sample, inspect the well and provide the lab analysis for bacteria and nitrates.

For information on water testing, contact the health department at (847) 377-8020, or email HealthEHS@lakecountyil.gov.