Did you know that the Conservation District provides the opportunity for Fulton County residents to have their drinking water tested for bacteria and other contaminants? The Conservation District delivers water samples to a certified lab in Chambersburg on the first Wednesday of each month. To have your water tested:
1. Pick-up a sample bottle: You can pick-up your sample bottle during normal business hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM) at the Conservation District Office, located at 173 Snowy Lane, McConnellsburg. The cost of the sample bottle varies depending upon the tests you would like performed (scroll down for list of tests) and payment is due the day you pick up the bottle(s). You will also receive a form that needs to be completed and sent with the sample.
It is recommended that anyone utilizing a well or spring should have their water tested for total coliform every year. Other tests can be performed depending on specific problems or concerns (see table below).
2. Collect your sample: In the morning on the first Wednesday of the month, collect a sample of your water from your kitchen sink (or other water source of concern) and place the sample in your refrigerator until you are ready to drop your sample off. Fill out the form provided.
3. Drop-off your sample bottle: Bring your water sample back to the Conservation District Office by noon on that same day and we will arrange to have your sample delivered to the lab.
*** Remember: Samples can only be dropped off the first Wednesday of each month. Collecting your sample first thing in the morning and keeping your sample cold will result in a more accurate test.
If you have questions about having your drinking water tested, please contact Jennifer Sheeder at 717-325-6088
| TEST | COST |
| Total Coliform Bacteria plus E. coli – Total coliform bacteria test is a primary indicator of the suitability of drinking water for consumption. The presence of E. coli indicates fecal contamination. | $20 |
| Nitrate – Often an indicator of manure or fertilizer. High concentrations can be particularly dangerous for babies under 6 months old (“blue baby syndrome”). | $27 |
| Lead – Toxic metal. Can lead to neurological damage, especially in children. Important to test if you have old plumbing and fixtures (pre 1986). | $20 |
| Fluoride – An essential micro-nutrient, but excessive amounts can lead to dental problems. | $20 |
| Iron – Not harmful, but can impart an objectional taste or odor to water. High levels can stain clothes and plumbing. | $20 |
| Sodium – Low levels are not a concern, but elevated levels could adversely affect blood pressure or those on low sodium diets. | $20 |
| Hardness – Not a health issue, but can cause mineral build-up in plumbing fixtures and poor performance of soaps and detergents. | $17 |
| Sulfate – Excessive amounts can have a laxative effect or cause gastrointestinal irritation. | $29 |
| pH – Low pH can leach copper and lead our of old copper and lead water lines. | $7 |
| TOTAL: | |