Water Testing

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Water Testing

Private wells should be tested routinely for bacteria, nitrates and arsenic.

Buffalo County Water Lab

Buffalo County Public Health has a WI DATCP Certified water lab. We offer testing for bacteria, nitrate, and arsenic.

Test kits may be picked up at the courthouse (407 S 2nd St, Alma), or you may also be able to pick up a water test kit at one of the following locations:

  • Buffalo City Municipal Building
  • G-Mart in Gilmanton
  • Mondovi City Hall

If you are unable to pick up a water test kit in person or are otherwise unable to conduct a water test due to disability, please contact Public Health at 608-685-4412.

Health Effects of Waterborne Disease

Symptoms of waterborne diseases may include gastrointestinal illnesses such as severe diarrhea, nausea, and possibly jaundice as well as associated headaches and fatigue. It is important to note, however, that these symptoms are not associated only with disease-causing organisms in drinking water. They may also be caused by a number of other factors. In addition, not all people will be affected to the same degree; young children and the elderly are usually more susceptible.

**Results in the infographic above are from the 2024 Public Health Annual Report**

Bacteria Testing ($25)

Total coliform (TC) bacteria are common in the environment (such as in soil) and the intestines of animals and are generally not harmful. Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are found in greater quantities than total coliform in animal fecal matter. If E. coli is detected along with TC in drinking water, there is strong evidence that sewage is present; therefore, a greater potential for pathogenic organisms exists.

Nitrate Testing ($25)

Nitrate is a compound that occurs naturally and also has many human-made sources. Nitrate is in some lakes, rivers, and groundwater in Wisconsrin. Some groundwater has nitrate concentrations that present a health risk – especially for babies and pregnant women. You cannot taste, see, or smell nitrate in your water.

Arsenic Testing ($30)

Arsenic occurs naturally in rocks and soil across Wisconsin and can dissolve into groundwater. Drinking water that contains arsenic can increase your risk of cancer and other serious health effects. Unfortunately, there is no way to know the arsenic level in water before a well is drilled. Arsenic levels can vary between wells, even within a small area. You cannot taste, see, or smell arsenic in your water

Fee Exempt Testing

Buffalo County offers fee-exempt water testing for any household under 150% of the federal poverty level with a pregnant woman, a child under 6 months of age, a breastfeeding mother, or a WIC Program client. These tests are sent to and tested at the State Lab of Hygiene.

Contact Buffalo County Public Health for more information at 608-685-4412

Public Health

Contact Information

Jamie Weaver

Public Health Supervisor
Email
  • 407 S. 2nd St
    3rd Floor
    Alma, WI 54610
  • P.O. Box 517
  • (608) 685-4412
  • TTY/Hearing Impaired 711 or 1-800-947-3529
  • Fax: (608) 685-3342
  • Monday – Thursday
    8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Friday
    8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Facebook
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