Free water quality testing offered by GCUWCD

There will be free water quality testing this year for residents of Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District. The tests will analyze water for various contaminants, providing a comprehensive understanding of your water quality.

Residents are encouraged to participate to ensure their water is safe for consumption and intended use. You can drop off samples from Aug. 12 through Aug. 30 at the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District (GCUWCD) office, 522 Saint Matthew St., Gonzales, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Samples must be returned to the GCUWCD as soon as possible to ensure accuracy.

For questions about sampling, contact Ms. Laura Martin or Ms. Haley Stakes at 830-672-1047 or email them at generalmanager@gcuwcd.org or admin@gcuwcd.org. The results of the water testing will be provided once AgriLife completes the water quality testing.

For more information, visit the Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District online at gcuwcd.org. Join in to learn more about water quality and management in our community and to receive your well water testing results.

How To Take A Water Sample

Water analyses can only be accurate if the sample is taken correctly. When collecting a water sample, please follow these simple guidelines:

• CONTAINERS:
Samples should be collected in a new clean, plastic bottle with a screw cap. Purchased 16–20-ounce drinking water bottles can be reused if you rinse the bottle three times with the water source to be submitted to the laboratory. Ensure the cap is tight prior to shipping. Please note that the lab does not test for bacteria, pesticides, or petrochemicals. Clearly identify each bottle with a simple sample I.D. matching those used on the front side of this form. When mailing, place bottles in a box and pack with a loose, soft packing material to prevent crushing. Avoid glass containers, as boron concentrations may change, and glass has higher potential for breakage.
• WELL WATER:
Let the pump operate ten minutes to an hour before taking the sample. Take the sample as close to the pump as possible.
• ASSESSING PROBLEM WATERS:
Two separate water samples may be required to address water related problems due to plumbing and/or fixtures. One sample should be collected at the point of entry (well or water service) and another at point of use (faucet, pool and etc.). This sampling method will help pinpoint problematic plumbing.