Coliform Bacteria
Coliform bacteria are a collection of microorganisms that are found in soil, surface water, vegetation, and animal waste. Coliform bacteria cause no observable odor, taste, or color change in water. Testing is the only way to determine if they are present. This is why it is important to have your water tested yearly. Coliform bacteria are reliable indicator organisms for testing water quality because they travel with disease producing organisms. The presence of coliform bacteria in water usually indicates that the water is unsuitable for drinking. A thorough chlorination process must be followed to eliminate the bacteria from the well. The water should then be re-tested to confirm the presence or absence of bacteria.

E.coli Bacteria
One group of coliform bacteria, fecal coliforms, is associated with human and animal waste. E.coli is a type of fecal coliform bacteria found in the intestines of both humans and animals. Some species of E.coli can cause health-related problems. Testing for total coliform bacteria is a reliable indicator for testing water quality because they travel with disease producing organisms. Waterborne transmission occurs through swimming in contaminated lakes, pools, or drinking contaminated water. The primary source of E.coli contamination in well water is the ground and soil around the well. The presence of E.coli in water is an indication of recent sewage or animal waste contamination. Water contaminated with E.coli is unsuitable for drinking. This is why it is important to have your water tested yearly. If E.coli bacteria are present, a thorough chlorination process must be followed to eliminate their presence from the well. The water should then be re-tested to confirm the presence or absence of bacteria.

• Samples for bacteriological analysis are only accepted Monday through Friday 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM.
• Please allow 24 to 36 hours for results
• All tests must be paid for in advance