Note to residents:
Due to the busyness of this election year and other factors, we are unable to offer transportation of water samples to the lab this year, as we did in 2026.
We have a small inventory of water test kits available at the Town Hall for residents. Residents can pick up a kit, take the sample and deliver it to Water Diagnostics in Mequon. If you choose to take a kit, please use it or return it, as it costs about $5 to put the kit together.
If possible, when you deliver your sample, ask the lab to give you a replacement kit to replenish our inventory and help the next person who wishes to take advantage of this option.
Thanks for your understanding.
"Water" You Waiting For?
If your home is served by a private well, it’s your responsibility to ensure the water
is safe to drink. Unlike public water systems, private wells aren’t regulated by the EPA. The CDC recommends annual testing for:
• Total coliform bacteria – indicates potential harmful microbes in the water.
• Nitrates – high levels can be harmful, especially for infants and pregnant women.
• Total dissolved solids (TDS) – measures minerals, salts, and metals in water.
• pH level – affects water taste, plumbing, and effectiveness of disinfection.
Additional tests may be recommended depending on your location, well depth, or nearby land use. Regular testing helps prevent health risks and ensures your water is clean and safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
See the following forms from Water Diagnostics in Mequon for information on testing options.
- Well Water Testing Options, detailing testing packages and related costs
- Private Water Test Form, including detailed sampling instructions
Water Safety Education
Washington County Well Water Testing Link
Visit this link at Washington County to view information on Water Education
Which Test is Appropriate?
My recommendation is to follow the "home sale" protocols. Bacteria, nitrate and arsenic. You can run a more comprehensive panel than that, but those are the main things we see elevations of in both counties. Occasionally we will see high levels of strontium as well, but having a water softener can usually help to drop strontium levels.
The only treatment to remove nitrates and arsenic is a reverse osmosis system, which aren't as common, that is why we recommend looking at those potential items.
Hope this helps!
Chris Berg
Environmental Health Supervisor
Washington Ozaukee
Public Health Department
333 E. Washington St. Suite 1100
P.O. Box 2003
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 335-4473
chris.berg@washozwi.gov