Well Water Analysis

Water tests are $40 for the first parameter tested and $10 for each additional parameter tested. For a water pickup, an additional $50 is charged. For a water pickup and subsurface sewage treatment system compliance inspection, an additional $175 is charged. Please choose the test or tests you would like run.

CASH OR CHECK PAYABLE TO 

CARLTON COUNTY TREASURER 

FOR ALL FEES

Hours

Samples are accepted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, and on Thursday between 8 a.m. and Noon.

Instructions

  1. Minimum of one pint (sterilized glass jar and lid) of water needed for testing. Bypass any water softeners.
  2. Choose a cold water tap as close as possible to the pump, remove strainer. Run water for 5 minutes.
  3. Turn water off, sterilize tap outlet with small propane torch, a match, candle or lighter.
  4. Remove cap from bottle being careful not to touch the inside surface.
  5. Fill bottle, replace cap.
  6. Please print and fill out a Chain of Custody form (PDF) and return it to our office with the sample.  If you are unable to print it, you may fill out the Chain of Custody Form in our office.

Samples Must Be Fresh

Samples should be drawn the same day they are submitted or the night before - they must be submitted within 24 hours of sampling. Tests are run on samples warmed to room temperature and can be no more than 30 hours old when tested. Refrigerate if taken the night before.

Tests

We offer the following testing parameters:

  • Coliform Bacteria and E. coli: The presence of coliform bacteria or E. coli suggests a possible bacterial contamination. A positive test indicates that the well should be checked for septic tank infiltration, a cracked casing, or surface water seepage.
  • Nitrate: Nitrate is an indicator of possible contamination from septic systems or animal wastes. In excessive amounts, it contributes to an illness known as infant methemoglobinemia.
  • Iron: Iron in excessive amounts will stain laundry and porcelain fixtures and give a taste and odor to the water.
  • Hardness: Hardness is a measurement of the total concentration of calcium and magnesium in the water. Excessive hardness will cause scale in pipes, water heaters, and on cooking utensils.

Minnesota Department of Health

If you require a lab analysis from a Minnesota Department of Health certified laboratory, please call 888-345-0823 for a listing of certified laboratories.

Arsenic

Learn more at the Minnesota Department of Health's arsenic page.