Did you know nitrate is one of the most common groundwater chemicals in Wisconsin? High levels of nitrate in
drinking water can affect those drinking the water. The Lincoln County Health Department is proud to announce
the opening of their certified nitrate lab. This will add on to the already certified bacteria-testing lab. The
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) certifies the lab for testing public and private wells.
“We know that clean, safe drinking water is vital to living a healthy lifestyle. We are excited to bring this service to
Lincoln County to help residents better understand their drinking water,” says Meghan Williams, Registered
Environmental Health Specialist, Lincoln County Health Department.
In addition to a yearly test, WDNR recommends nitrate and bacteria to be tested before a woman who is or may
become pregnant will use the well, if you notice a change in taste, color, or smell of your water, or if any well
modifications have been done.
Test kits are available for purchase at the Lincoln County Health Department at 607 N. Sales Street Suite 101,
Monday-Friday from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Samples can be returned to the lab Monday-Wednesday from 8:30 am3:00 pm. Bacteria test kits are $20 and nitrate tests kits are $25. Each kit includes a sterile water-sampling bottle,
instructions on how to take a proper sample, the lab test results. Results will be available 2-3 days after samples
are returned to the lab.
For more information on nitrate in drinking water, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website:
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/water/nitrate.htm.
For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit https://lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County