Just because southeastern Manitoba has some of the best quality water in the world, that does not mean what is coming out of your tap is safe to drink. That is the message from Jodi Goerzen, District Manager for Seine Rat River Conservation District.

Goerzen is encouraging residents to have their well water tested annually. The Conservation District has two dates; May 23rd and June 20th.

Goerzen explains testing is really quite simple for the homeowner. A sample can be taken from any tap where water is not run through a filter. The sample must then be dropped off at any participating municipal office before 10 am on the day it was taken.

"We test for E. coli and coliform bacteria," says Goerzen. "Those are the two main ones that have caused issues for drinking water in the past, like Walkerton."

Water sample (Photo credit: Horizon Lab)In the case of E. coli, Goerzen says it can be extremely harmful, leading to death, as was the case in Walkerton. As for coliform bacteria, she says the acceptable levels have changed over the years. Goerzen notes the province used to allow about 10 milligrams of coliform, but has since lowered allowable amounts to zero.

"Sometimes if there are predominant stomach aches in the family or in the household, then it could be a good sign that it could be coming from the water," she says.

Goerzen says thankfully there haven't really been any E. coli issues in our region over the years. She says any issues can usually be addressed through a simple shock chlorination. Goerzen says coliform bacteria is a little more common. She notes of the approximately 100 water samples they take in annually, only one or two each year contain coliform bacteria. Goerzen says E. coli pops up maybe once every four or five years.

According to Goerzen, just because your sample might test positive for E. coli or bacteria, that does not mean the aquifer is contaminated.

"Sometimes if you have old pipes that can build up bacteria," she explains. "Or if you have an old well pit, or if your well is below ground, there is still that potential source that you can get coliform or bacteria inside."

Goerzen says having your well water tested after a flood event is always wise. For example, if you noticed a lot of water pooling around the well it would be a good idea to get it tested to make sure it is safe to drink.

The water test costs the homeowner $22.31. Samples are brought to Horizon Lab in Winnipeg. Goerzen says the lab will provide results to residents within two weeks. If there is a problem with your water, you will find out within 24 hours.