Which laboratory performs bacteriological analysis for individual well owners?

The local health unit is typically the primary laboratory that performs bacteriological analysis for individual well owners. This is because local health units are focused on public health within their communities and provide essential services related to water quality and safety. They have the resources and expertise to conduct tests for contaminants commonly found in well water, such as bacteria, and can provide guidance on how to interpret the results.

Local health units often serve as a point of contact for residents who are concerned about the water quality of their private wells and can offer recommendations for treatment or further testing if necessary. Their role in monitoring and ensuring safe drinking water is crucial for rural areas where private wells are common. This localized approach helps ensure that well owners have access to reliable and relevant testing services.

While other options like private research labs, state public health departments, and university testing centers may also conduct bacteriological analyses, they are not typically the first choice for individual well owners looking for local and accessible testing services. These options might be used for more specialized testing or when local resources are unavailable, but the local health unit remains the most direct and community-focused resource for this purpose.