URGENT UPDATE: La Plata County has just unveiled its new water lab, a critical facility aimed at ensuring safe drinking water for all residents. Completed this summer, the lab enhances the Public Health Department’s ability to test for dangerous bacteria like Total Coliform and E. coli, which can lead to severe health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Access to clean water is a pressing concern, and the need for reliable testing has never been greater. The La Plata County Public Health Department (LPCPHD) is now equipped to conduct thorough assessments of both public water and private well systems, providing essential services not only for La Plata County residents but also for neighbors across the Four Corners region.
The LPCPHD Water Quality Lab is ready to serve the community with tests priced at an affordable $27.50. Results are typically available within 24 hours, making it crucial for anyone concerned about their water quality to act swiftly. If your well water shows signs of contamination, including foul odors or discoloration, immediate testing is recommended.
Residents can submit water samples at the Public Health main offices located at 281 Suttle St., from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday. A self-service, pay system is also available in the lobby for convenience. It is vital to collect and submit samples the same day to ensure accurate results.
Kim Myers, the Water Quality Lab supervisor with a Ph.D. in aqueous geochemistry and microbiology, emphasized the importance of regular testing. “Annual testing for private well owners is crucial to maintain safe drinking water,” Myers said. The lab also offers guidance on disinfection procedures if harmful bacteria are detected, ensuring the community can respond effectively.
For those connected to public water systems, the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act mandates regular testing to uphold safety standards. If issues arise, public water suppliers must act quickly to mitigate risks to consumer health. Residents can access public water system test results via the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment’s website, keeping the community informed and safe.
Moreover, the new lab extends its services to monitor wastewater utilities, safeguarding local recreational waters and streams. Testing for biochemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, and fecal coliform bacteria is part of the lab’s comprehensive approach to environmental health.
The opening of this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant step forward in protecting community health and ensuring the safety of drinking water. La Plata County residents are encouraged to utilize this resource, as the implications for public health are substantial.
The LPCPHD Water Lab is poised to play a central role in the ongoing effort to ensure safe drinking water in the region. For inquiries or more information, contact the lab at 828-8804 or via email at [email protected].
Stay informed and proactive about your water quality—testing is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessary safeguard for your health and well-being.
