Water Sample Kits Available at Local Jurisdictions

The Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center has launched a pilot program that offers private well owners a convenient way to have their drinking water tested.

Water sample kits are for the first time available in specific municipalities and townships with substantial populations that rely on private water wells. Making the kits available in local jurisdictions will save residents one trip to the Lake County Central Permit Facility/Environmental Laboratory in Libertyville. The Health Department also hopes that the pilot program will create greater awareness of annual water testing, water well maintenance, and underscore the protection and preservation of groundwater as a valuable resource.

The following locations are participating in the pilot program and have a stock of water sample kits available for private water well owners:

Townships Villages

Antioch Fox Lake

Fremont Lindenhurst

Grant Long Grove

Lake Villa Wadsworth

Residents should visit the main township or village hall facilities of these areas to obtain their kits. They should follow the instructions provided for water collection, and then drop off water samples between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at the Lake County Central Permit Facility/Environmental Laboratory, 500 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville. Water samples cannot be accepted on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The analysis fee to test for safe drinking water standards (coliform bacteria and nitrates) is $16.

Approximately 90,000 Lake County residents rely on private wells for their water supply. Most of these residents live in the western or northern parts of the county. For further information on water testing, contact the Health Department at (847) 377- 8030, or send an email to: HealthEHS@lakecountyil.gov.