Manitoba Environment and Climate Change is encouraging residents to test their well water or cistern to detect coliforms and E. coli in their water supply.
The ideal time to conduct these tests is in the spring, especially after a flood or heavy rainstorm.
Changes in the colour, clarity, odor, or taste of well or cistern water are also indicators that testing should be done. The Private Well Testing Subsidy Program, in collaboration with Duracan Laboratory in Winnipeg, offers these tests at a subsidized cost for private well and cistern owners once per year.
Duracan Laboratory, located at 862 Dufferin Ave. in Winnipeg, provides the test at a subsidized cost of $17.67 (tax included) this year, representing a saving of over $7 per test compared to last year. If the test results are positive, homeowners are notified promptly and given instructions on how to disinfect their water source. They are also issued a resample coupon to retest their water after treatment, free of charge.
For more information about the Private Well Testing Subsidy Program or Duracan Ltd., residents can contact Duracan Laboratory at 204-960-9995 or visit Duracan's contact page.
To learn more about drinking water safety in Manitoba, visit Manitoba's drinking water safety page.