Free well sampling test kits available March 6-10

Marshall and Putnam County Health Departments are joining with the National Ground Water Awareness Association to remind residents it’s “Time for Your Water Well Checkup” in support of National Ground Water Awareness Week. Wells can provide high-quality drinking water, and about half the US population receives its drinking water from wells.

The Health Departments are partnering with MP Farm Bureau to provide free well sampling test kits for residents of Marshall and Putnam counties. During National Groundwater Awareness Week, Marshall and Putnam county residents can pick up the free kits Monday-Friday, March 6 – 10, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Marshall-Putnam Farm Bureau building in Henry.

These test kits normally cost $15.00, but during this week they are being distributed for free. Please note: After this week, the kits will only be available from the Health Department and they will cost $15.00.

After you have your sample, they must be mailed by overnight delivery to Springfield, IL. Because testing is not done on the weekend, it is necessary to obtain and mail the sample on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. The water sample must be received in Springfield within 30 hours of being collected. The charge for overnight delivery is approximately $10.00.