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Richmond County
UGA Extension Office

Water Testing

Water-image

Water is perhaps the most precious of our resources; our families, our pets, and even our plants all need water to live healthy lives. With water being so important, it’s vital that we understand how safe our water really is. Heavy metals, minerals, and even microorganisms can all be found in a glass of seemingly clear water. Water testing is the only way to ensure the reliability of your water source.

Our basic water test measures levels of the following:

pH and Hardness
Boron (B)
Magnesium (Mg)
Sodium (Na)
Phosphorus (P)
Chromium (Cr)
Manganese (Mn
Zinc (Zn)
Potassium (K)
Copper (Cu)
Molybdenum (Mo)
Calcium (Ca)
Cadmium (Cd)
Nickel (Ni)
Aluminum (Al)
Iron (Fe)
Silica (Si)

It usually takes 2-3 weeks from date of submission to receive test results. If you’re interested in water testing services, please consult with your local County Extension Agent for assistance.

Contact

For general questions, or more information about Water Testing in Richmond County, please contact 706-821-2350.


Extension Publications

Your Household Water Quality: Odors in Your Water
Your Household Water Quality: Odors in Your Water (C 1016) Homeowners sometimes experience unpleasant odors in their household water. In many cases, the exact cause of the odor is difficult to determine by water testing; however, this publication provides a few general recommendations for treating some common causes of household water odors.
Understanding Laboratory Wastewater Tests: I. Organics (BOD, COD, TOC, O&G)
Understanding Laboratory Wastewater Tests: I. Organics (BOD, COD, TOC, O&G) (C 992) For most people a complete understanding of the standard methods required to accurately complete critical wastewater analytical tests is not necessary. However, a fundamental understanding of the theory behind and working knowledge of the basic procedures used for each test, and the answers to commonly asked questions about each test can be a valuable tool for anyone involved in generating, monitoring, treating or discharging process wastewater.
Disinfecting Your Well Water: Shock Chlorination
Disinfecting Your Well Water: Shock Chlorination (C 858-4) Shock chlorination is the process by which home water systems such as wells, springs, and cisterns are disinfected using household liquid bleach (or chlorine). Shock chlorination is the most widely recommended means of treating bacterial contamination in home water systems. This publication contains guidelines for safely and effectively using shock chlorination -- a standard treatment for sanitizing your well system.
Factors to Consider in Selecting a Farm Irrigation System
Factors to Consider in Selecting a Farm Irrigation System (B 882) The majority of agricultural irrigation systems in Georgia fit into one of two broad categories: sprinkler irrigation and micro-irrigation. Sprinkler irrigation systems include center pivot, linear move, traveling gun, permanent set and solid set. Micro-irrigation systems include drip (or trickle) irrigation and micro-sprinklers. No one system is best for every application. Once you decide to install an irrigation system, you must consider several important factors before deciding which system is best for your situation. This publication is intended primarily for the farmer who has made the decision to irrigate and is in the process of deciding what type system will best fit into his or her operation.
View other publications on Water & Drought