Water Testing Services​

We provide laboratory testing for drinking water, irrigation water, swimming pools and spas, and surface or recreational water. Testing helps protect public health.

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CMDHD recommends testing private wells for total coliform bacteria and nitrate every year. Testing is also recommended if there are changes to the well system, construction or repairs, or flooding near the well.

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Drinking Water Testing​

When to Collect and Submit Samples

• Collect samples Monday through Wednesday only.

• Deliver or ship samples the same day they are collected. Use guaranteed next-day UPS or hand delivery.

• Do not collect samples near federal holidays or during the week between Christmas and New Year.

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Sample Containers

• Approved bottles, instructions, and forms are available at all branch offices.

• Samples in unapproved containers will not be tested.

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Test Results

• Results are usually ready within 2 to 3 business days.

• Reports are emailed to the client listed on the submission form. Fax or mail is available upon request.

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Drinking Water Tests and Fees​

Total Coliform and E. coli

This presence or absence test screens for bacteria that may indicate contamination in drinking water.

• Samples must arrive at the lab within 30 hours of collection.

• Fee: $25 per sample

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Enumeration of Total Coliform and E. coli

This test provides a numerical result to measure bacterial levels and assess water safety.

• Samples must arrive at the lab within 6 hours of collection.

• Fee: $25 per sample

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Nitrate

High nitrate levels can pose health risks, especially for infants and pregnant women.

• Samples must arrive within 30 hours of collection.

• Samples must be kept on ice and arrive at 4°C (39°F) or colder.

• Fee: $25 per sample

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How to Collect a Drinking Water Sample

• Use only the approved bottle provided by the health department.

• Wash your hands before collecting the sample.

• Do not touch the inside of the bottle or cap.

• Run cold water for 5 to 10 minutes before sampling.

• Collect water from the tap closest to the well or pressure tank.

• Fill the bottle to the marked line (100-120 mL) only.

• Keep the sample cold and out of direct sunlight.

• Complete all required paperwork.

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Sample Delivery Location

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Assurance Water Lab of CMDHD
103 N. Bowery
Gladwin, MI 48624

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Drop-off hours:
8:30 a.m. to noon
1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Please note: overnight shipping does not guarantee delivery within the required testing time.

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Swimming Pool and Spa Water Testing​

Testing helps identify bacteria linked to poor disinfection, heavy swimmer use, or treatment system problems.

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Sampling Guidelines

• Collect samples while swimmers are present, preferably during peak use.

• Use sterile bottles provided by the health department.

• Collect samples 12 to 18 inches below the water surface.

• Samples must arrive at the lab within 24 hours.

Fee: $25 per sample

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Surface and Recreational Water Testing​

High bacteria levels in lakes and rivers can increase the risk of illness, especially after rain.

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Sampling Guidelines

• Collect samples 12 to 18 inches below the water surface.

• Samples must arrive at the lab within 6 hours.

Fee: $25 per sample

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Understanding Your Results​

Total Coliform Bacteria

Total coliform bacteria are common in the environment. They are found in soil, surface water, plants, and the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While they are usually not harmful, a positive result may mean there is a problem with the well or plumbing system and that other harmful bacteria could be present.

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E. coli

E. coli is found in the intestines of people, mammals, and birds. A positive result suggests fecal contamination and a higher risk that disease-causing organisms may be in the water.

Bacteria in Drinking Water Fact Sheet

 

Nitrate

Nitrate can enter drinking water from the ground, especially in areas with shallow wells, damaged well casings, poor grouting, or nearby abandoned wells. Nitrate has no taste or smell. Testing is the only way to know if levels are high. Elevated nitrate is a serious concern for infants. The federal drinking water limit for nitrate is 10 mg/L.

Nitrate in Drinking Water Fact Sheet

 

Swimming Pool and Spa Water Results

Coliform bacteria in pool or spa water may indicate problems such as:

• Low disinfectant levels

• Heavy swimmer use

• Use by infected swimmers

• Failure of the treatment system

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Surface and Recreational Water Results

Swimming in water with high bacteria levels increases the risk of illness. Common symptoms include stomach illness, flu-like symptoms, and respiratory infections. Bacteria levels are often higher during and after rain due to runoff. CMDHD monitors several public beaches during the swimming season.

CMDHD Swimming Beaches