WATER TESTING
Please be advised that we are currently unable to accept samples for expedited (rush-order) results. Test results will be available after 10 business days for routine and real estate kits, as well as metal analysis.
WATER TESTING FOR PRIVATE WELLS (updated: 4/2023)
It is recommended that Private Well Water be tested once a year. Sterile collection bottles are available at the Wellfleet Health Department M-W-F 8:00 am - 12:00 and 1:00 - 4:00 pm, T & Th 8:00 am to 12:00 noon.
Types of tests:
- Routine: includes Coliform Bacteria, pH, Conductivity, Iron, Copper, Sodium, Nitrates, and Manganese ($70.00)
- Real Estate Package: includes Coliform Bacteria, pH, Conductivity, Iron, Copper, Sodium, Nitrate, Manganese and VOCs ($190.00)
- Individual sample bottles (prices vary depending on sample type *If you are in need of a Lead or PFAS test kit, please call ahead (508) 349-0308 as we will need to order these specific bottles from the Barnstable County Lab.
Helpful Hints for Conducting a Water Test:
- Use the bathroom sink or tub head for the sample.
- Take off any screens attached to the faucet.
- Run the cold water for 3-5 minutes. Fill the bottles as instructed on the form. *It is recommended that you NOT use the kitchen faucet due to food particles; any other faucet is preferred.
- The coliform bacteria bottle is taped: be sure when filling up this bottle that you don't touch the rim or the underside of the cap.
- PLEASE NOTE: Samples must be taken the same morning they are dropped off for the lab.
- See video at the bottom of the page for a quick tutorial from Barnstable County.
Drop Off Information:
- Wellfleet Health Department: 1035 Cemetery Road, Wellfleet MA; Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8AM - 9:30AM. If you are using the Wellfleet Courier Service, you can only pay via check (made payable to Barnstable County). ***We DO NOT accept Credit cards at this time.
- Barnstable County Water Quality Laboratory: 3195 Main Street, Barnstable, MA; Samples are not accepted after 4:00 PM Monday through Thursday, and not after 12:00 PM on Friday
Please allow 10 days for results. Testing may be expedited for an additional fee.To find out more information regarding the Water Quality Lab and it's requirements including pricing, turn-around times, and tips on how to conduct water tests, click here or call them at 508-375-6605.
PFAS Testing
- What are PFAS?
- PFAS (Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. There are hundreds of PFAS variations, each made up of a very complex structure of carbon and fluorine atoms. Exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health and environmental impacts. PFAS are detected at a very low level (part per trillion) and are mobile through air, water and soil pathways. These chemicals are very prevalent and found everywhere in our environment and do not break down over time. They can remain in the environment and groundwater indefinitely.
- PFAS FAQ's Barnstable County
- Testing
- Barnstable County
Barnstable County Water Quality Laboratory is now offering PFAS analysis for drinking water! Sampling kits can be picked up at the Wellfleet Health Department or the Laboratory, located at 3195 Main Street, Barnstable Village (in the Superior Courthouse Complex).
- Sampling Fee: $265 (includes analysis for 18 PFAS compounds, six of which are regulated by MA DEP)
- Turn Around Time: Approximately 2 Weeks
WATER QUALITY INFORMATION & FACT SHEETS
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