With all the recent attention on water quality and testing, there are options for residents interested in seeing how their particular location stands up to analysis.
Water testing can be done locally and provides quick and reliable results. It’s a good way to ease concerns if someone is worried about water quality where they live, say representatives from McDuffey Lab, located on Thunder Mountain Road north of Camdenton. Collecting samples is relatively easy and can provide peace of mind.
According to information provided by McDuffey Lab, the most important requirement when collecting a sample is making certain the container is sterilized.
The container used for collection of any water sample for any bacterial analysis must be sterilized. The data obtained from analyzing environmental samples is only as good as the procedures and techniques used to collect them.
It is best to obtain a certified pre-sterilized container from the laboratory that will conduct the analysis. In most cases, the container will be some form of plastic and have some type of seal on the cap to assure its integrity.
Most bacterial methods require a minimum of 100 milliliters of water, and most containers manufactured for these samples will have a minimum fill mark indicated.
Location, location, location
The location to collect a sample is ultimately the decision of the sample collector.
To avoid undue bias to the sample, however, the location should be one that will prevent introduction of debris such as sticks, leaves, algae, insects, oil, gasoline, etc., into the sample.
• Avoid locations where large amounts of floating debris are noticed.
• Avoid locations near any pipes or outlets that may be discharging at the time.
• Water depth should be sufficient to avoid disturbing bottom sediments that may interfere with the sample analysis. For this reason, wading into the water to collect the sample is discouraged.
When collecting samples from a dock or boat, try to avoid disturbing algae clinging to the sides that might enter your sample container.
Sample timing

The methods for E. coli analysis in water have a holding time of six hours. This means that in order to remain viable, a water sample must begin the analytical process at a laboratory within six hours of being collected.
Beyond the six-hour period, too many of the organisms may die in the sample container to make analysis meaningful.
Samples must be kept cool but not frozen, immediately after collection to the time analysis begins.
The entire analytical process for E. coli takes a little more than 24 hours, so be sure to check with the lab to find out what days of the week are appropriate. Most labs do not operate on weekends and holidays unless special arrangements are made in advance.
When collecting the sample, cleanliness is most important. Make sure hands are clean by washing with soap and potable water prior to sample collection.
Commercially available hand sanitizers containing alcohol may be used. Be certain to not introduce any of the alcohol into the sample.
If desired, wear appropriate protective gloves. Gloves will also protect the integrity of the sample. No matter how clean hands or gloves may be, do not touch the inside of the sample container or cap.
To collect the sample, hold the container in one hand and remove the cap with the opposite hand. Invert the container (mouth down) and plunge into the chosen location to a suitable depth. Once submerged, upright the container, allow it to fill and bring to the surface.
Immediately replace the cap and place in an insulated cooler with ice. Collecting the sample at least 6 inches below the surface will help avoid floating debris.
Be sure to mark the container appropriately so that it may be identified by lab personnel. Include the date, time, and location of the collection and who collected it. Complete any required paperwork and transport to the laboratory without delay.
Contact this reporter at joycem@lakesunleader.com