Growing Beef Newsletter
June 2025, Volume 15, Issue 12
Water quality testing reminders
Garland Dahlke, IBC research scientist
Water is sometimes spoken of as the “forgotten nutrient or ingredient,” and like other feed ingredients, is variable in quality depending on the source and time of year. Generally, the difference may be mineral content when comparing one location to another, but microbial “load” or industrial contamination also may be considered. When a situation prompts investigation into water quality, a few details will need to be considered.
First, start with the laboratory being used to assess the quality. Most labs today will provide a kit that they recommend using and they will provide this kit after giving the lab a call to request it. Generally, the lab will inquire about what you will be looking for, such as mineral content of the water, microbial load, or industrial waste. This is because different contaminants need to be handled differently.
The second item, then, is to get the sample. For open water, like a pond, the following protocol should be followed:
- Take the sample away from the shore.
- If multiple samples over time are involved, sample the same area.
- Triple rinse the sample bottle with the source water before collecting the final sample to be submitted.
- Tip the bottle upside down when going into the water to keep the surface water out as much as possible (try to collect water a foot below the surface).
- Once to the desired depth, tip the bottle to let air out and water in.
- Store and transport the sample in a cool, dark place. Sunlight and heat tend to change things.
For well water, many of the same elements exist as above, but for this, do not take the sample from a stock tank or sink. Try to take the sample from the fill source. If the water is treated, collect the sample post-treatment. Remove aerator from samples from a faucet prior to sampling (do not allow air bubbles into sample). Run the water long enough to get fresh water from the well when a well is sampled, and like with an open water sample, store and transport it in a dark, cool place.
In some situations, because of what is being evaluated in the sample, the laboratory may also include other specific instructions. Be sure to pay attention to the fine print. Also, some samples may need to be “overnighted” while for others it may not be necessary. It is a good idea, though, to send the sample on the Monday of a week where there is no holiday or other circumstance to delay the lab from receiving the sample.
As far as which laboratory to use, the labs that test feedstuffs (hay, corn, etc.) will offer a water package. In Iowa we also have the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab in Ames and the state Hygienic Laboratory in Iowa City. Other commercial companies that you probably have already heard of, for instance Zinpro or Culligan Water Treatment Solutions, have programs as well. The results that come back are then a case-by-case assessment and response that your nutritionist or ISU Extension may be able to help work out.
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