La Plata County Launches New Water Lab for Community Safety
UPDATE: The La Plata County Public Health Department has officially opened a state-of-the-art water lab designed to ensure safe drinking water for residents and neighboring communities. This crucial facility, completed this summer, significantly enhances testing for harmful bacteria like E. coli and Total Coliform, which can pose serious health risks.
This new lab will provide immediate access to essential testing services for all La Plata County residents, including those in the surrounding Four Corners area. The facility empowers the Environmental Health program to conduct thorough examinations of public water and private well systems, helping to prevent potential contamination.
Water testing is critical: E. coli and Total Coliform can lead to severe health issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and infections, particularly affecting children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Residents are urged to test their well water, especially if they notice foul odors or discoloration.
Residents can access the affordable Presence/Absence test for just $27.50, with results typically available within 24 hours. Samples must be collected in sterile bottles provided by the lab and submitted within 30 hours of collection to ensure accurate results. Bottles can be picked up at the Public Health main office at 281 Suttle St. from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, or through a self-service system in the lobby.
As a reminder, private well owners are responsible for testing and treating their own drinking water. The lab also offers guidance for well disinfection if bacteria are detected, ensuring that residents can take immediate action to protect their health.
The laboratory adheres to stringent standards set by the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act and the Colorado Water Quality Control Division. Regular testing ensures safety for public water systems, with mandatory reporting and retesting protocols in place if contamination is detected.
Kim Myers, the Water Quality Lab supervisor, emphasizes the importance of these services: “Our goal is to provide reliable and timely testing to safeguard the health of our community.” With a Ph.D. in aqueous geochemistry and microbiology, Myers leads the lab’s efforts to monitor both drinking water and wastewater utilities, assuring the safety of recreational waters.
In a developing situation, residents are encouraged to stay informed about water quality in their areas. You can access public water system test results on the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment’s website. If you suspect an issue with your water, contact your water supplier or community management immediately.
For any questions about testing and services, contact the La Plata County Water Quality Lab at 828-8804 or via email at [email protected]. The lab is committed to keeping our water safe and our communities healthy.
Stay updated, and remember: if you haven’t received a notice regarding water safety, your supply is certified safe for use.
