Archive: Business & Technology

In recognition of National Drinking Water Week (May 5-9), the local nonprofit water testing lab, Community Science Institute, will be offering discounted coliform bacteria testing for residents with private wells. National Drinking Water Week raises awareness about drinking water protection and highlights the importance of the availability of safe drinking water.

Less than one percent (1%) of the Earth's water is suitable for drinking. Protection of drinking water supplies, including both private wells and municipal sources, is a shared responsibility.

To ensure that private wells are safe for drinking, the New York State Department of Health recommends annual testing for coliform bacteria. Coliform bacteria is broad class of bacteria that can be found in plants, soils, animals, and animal waste. Most coliform bacteria do not cause disease, however, some strains of E.coli can cause serious illness. The test for total coliform bacteria is an indicator test, meaning that the presence of total coliform bacteria is an indication that other pathogenic bacteria may be present.

Municipal supplies are regularly tested for coliform bacteria and are treated with chlorine to eliminate the possibility that coliform bacteria is present. If your drinking water comes from a municipal source, it is not necessary to test your water for coliform bacteria. If your drinking water comes from a private well and you have not tested it within the last year, Drinking Water Week is an excellent reminder to test your water.

During National Drinking Water Week, the Community Science Institute certified water quality testing lab is offering a 20% discount on total coliform testing.

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