WORTHINGTON -- Nobles County Environmental Services will offer a free nitrate water-testing clinic at the Nobles County Fair from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today in the Commercial Exhibit Building.
Nitrates are the most common contaminants in Minnesota's groundwater, and in some areas of the state a significant number of wells have high nitrate levels. Experts recommend private well owners who get their drinking water from wells test their water regularly.
To participate, bring at least one-half cup of water in preferably a clean plastic or clean glass container. To get a good sample, allow the tap to run 5 to 10 minutes before filling the container. Homeowners with distillation units, reverse osmosis or other nitrate removal systems should take two water samples -- one before and one after the treatment process. Homeowners with just a water softener need to take one sample, either before or after the water passes through the water softener.
Samples should be taken no more than 24 hours before the testing and must be kept refrigerated. Mark the container with name, phone number and a well identification number if more than one well is sampled. To remain anonymous, choose a "code number" to identify the sample. It is not necessary to provide information about the well or well location.
Samples will be analyzed on the spot, and usually takes less than five minutes. Results will be given directly to the homeowner.
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For more information, contact Kathy or Wayne at Nobles County Environmental Services, 295-5322.
