How to Get Well Water Tested for Cheap

Due to Hurricane Irene and recent floods, the Musconetcong Watershed Association is offering the residents of 24 municipalities—including Hopatcong—the chance to have their well water tested at a reduced rate until Oct. 7.

"We have all undoubtedly heard of towns or cities where residents were told not to drink their water for a number of days or to boil their water first," the association said in a release. "If you have a private well, no one is every going to knock on your door and tell you that your drinking water is unsafe. The responsibility for testing in communities served by private wells lies entirely with the homeowner."

Here are five things you need to know about the association's deal:

1. You Need to Know Cost: $50. And QC Laboratories, a water-testing company, will perform the tests.
2. You Need to Know What They're Looking For: Total coliform and nitrates. Coliform bacteria can make you sick. If a high amount of coliform is found in water, "it is very possible that harmful germs like viruses, bacteria and parasites might also be found in the water," the association said. Coliform can cause cramps and diarrhea, among other things. Nitrates can cause a condition known as Blue Baby Syndrome in babies less than six months old as well as older people, the association said.
3. You Need to Know What to Do: Pick up sample bottles and instructions at either the Hackettstown Municipal Building or the MWA River Resource Center in Asbury. You can pick up the packets until Oct. 7.
4. You Need to Know When to Return Samples and Paperwork: Bring them and a check for payment between 7 a.m. and noon at either location on Oct. 11.
5. You Need to Know Whom to Call for More Info: Email beth@musonetcong.org or call (908) 537-7060.