Well Water Testing
Make sure you’re serving your family safe drinking water. While most private water wells in Wisconsin provide safe drinking water, some may become contaminated with bacteria and other pollutants that are not filtered out when the water soaks into the ground.
The Manitowoc County Health Department recommends you test your private well at least once a year for coliform bacteria contamination and nitrates and any time you notice a change in how the water looks, tastes or smells. Even if your water looks, tastes and smells good, it can contain harmful bacteria and viruses.
Where can I get my private well water tested?
There are several private and public water testing labs available to Manitowoc County residents. A complete list of all certified labs is maintained by the Wisconsin DNR and can be accessed at Information for Homeowners with Private Wells – Wisconsin DNR.
The Manitowoc County Health Department has water test kits from the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene available for the public. The test kits that are available at Health Department can be used to test for coliform bacteria and nitrates. Analysis and shipping costs are the responsibility of the homeowner. A current price list for public water tests can be found on the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene’s website.
The Manitowoc County Soil and Water Conservation Department has sampling bottles available. Samples are sent to the UW-Stevens Point Water and Environmental Analysis Lab.
Soil and Water Conservation Department
Manitowoc County Office Complex
4319 Expo Drive
Manitowoc, WI 54221-0578
Phone: (920) 683-4183
Free Well Water Testing for Households with Pregnant Women and Infants
Manitowoc County Health Department provides free well water testing for coliform bacteria, fluoride, metals and nitrates for households with pregnant women and infants (up to 12 months). It is recommended that everyone test their well water at least annually, but it is even more important to test your water before using it for infant feeding. Infants are more susceptible to infection from contaminated water. Additionally, water that is high in nitrates causes “Blue Baby Syndrome” or methemoglobinemia, which limits the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. If you are interested in testing your water, you can pick up a kit at the Manitowoc County Health Department located at 1028 S 9th Street, Manitowoc, Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.