Low-cost water testing in Barrington area

The Barrington Area Council Of Governments will host a water testing event Sept. 5 for Barrington-area residents who receive their water from private wells.

Households with private wells are advised to test for bacteria and nitrates on an annual basis to detect invisible, odorless contaminants. Bacteria and nitrates can result from animal or human waste or fertilizer components reaching the well water and can cause illness. At last year's event, 13 percent of households tested positive for bacteria, officials said.

Residents of Barrington, Barrington Hills, Deer Park, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, South Barrington and Tower Lakes and the unincorporated areas of Barrington and Cuba townships are eligible.

Kits can be purchased for $12 between Aug. 27-31 at village and township offices of BACOG member communities. They can be dropped off between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sept. 5, at The Garlands of Barrington, 1000 Garlands Lane, Barrington. Results will be mailed to homeowners within two weeks.