Health Department Offers Reduced Water Testing Rates March 11-21

The Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center will offer reduced water testing rates in observance of National Ground Water Awareness Week in March. Water samples can be brought to the Lake County Central Permit Facility and Environmental Laboratory, 500 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. between March 11 and 21. During this time, the normal $16.00 analysis fee for testing for bacteria and nitrates will be reduced to $10.00 for well owners.

“About 90,000 Lake County residents rely on ground water from aquifers to supply their private wells,” said Irene Pierce, the Health Department's Executive Director. “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.”

Lake County residents can pick up sterile test bottles to be filled and returned for analysis at the Central Permit Facility. Homeowners can request that a kit be mailed for an additional $2.00 charge for postage. Mailed kits will also need to be returned in person to the Central Permit Facility. Results of water samples are ready for homeowners in approximately three working days. If people are uncomfortable with collecting these

samples themselves, staff are available to go out to homes to collect the sample for a $54.00 fee, which includes an inspection of the well and the lab analysis for bacteria and nitrates.

National Ground Water Awareness Week is an annual observance sponsored by the National Ground Water Association (NGWA). This week brings attention to the importance of ground water as a valuable resource. The observance also stresses the need for yearly water testing and well maintenance to prevent waterborne illness.

For further information on water testing, contact the Health Department at (847) 377- 8020, or send an email to: HealthEHS@lakecountyil.gov.