Private Well Water Testing FAQs

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Can you tell me what is in my water?
NTS can test for some water quality parameters.

It is not practical to test water for every possible disease-causing bacterium, virus, and protozoan, so the Minnesota Department of Health recommends testing for a group of indicator bacteria called Total Coliform Bacteria.

Total Coliform Bacteria are a good indicator of sanitary protection.  For more information about well testing, refer to  The Minnesota Department of Health Web Site.

How do I get my water tested?
Once you have decided which tests you would like, you need to obtain a sample kit from NTS.

How do I get a sample kit?
Sample kits can be picked up at our laboratory located at 315 Chestnut Street in Virginia, Minnesota, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or a kit can be mailed to your home.

To request a sample kit please contact: Sample receiving: (218) 742-1006

Standard Well Kits can also be picked up at the following locations:

Grand Rapids: Itasca County Environmental Services
  123 NE 4th Street
  (218) 327-2857
  Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
   
Grand Marais: Cook County Health Department
  411 West 2nd Street
  (218) 387-3620
  Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.