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Closed for Labor Day!
In observance of Labor Day, Ward Laboratories, Inc. will be closed on Monday, September 1. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, September 2. Drop boxes will remain open outside our Sample Receiving doors as always!
Submit A Sample
How To > Water Analysis
How to submit your
Water Analysis
Download the submittal form and make sure you include your name, address, phone number, sample ID, and desired analysis. Email address is suggested for rapid return on reports.
Which analysis is recommended?
- W-1. Irrigation Water Quality
- W-501. Brewers’ Test
- W-4. Livestock Suitability
- W-101. Sub Surface Irrigation
- W-2. Nitrate Sulfate
- W-3. Nitrate
- W-810. Hydroponic Fertilizer Test
- W-5. Household Complete Mineral Test
- W-7. Household Coliform Bacteria
- For pricing and full list of Water Analysis’ see our Pricing.
Agricultural Water Sampling Procedure:
- Use a clean plastic container for submitting your sample. Bottles can be obtained from the laboratory here.
- Rinse the container several times with water that is being sampled. Send at least one-half pint of water to be tested.
- Wells should be pumped several hours before sampling. Test wells should be sampled after the pipe and screen are in place. Pump well for at least 10 hours before sampling.
- Samples of lakes, streams, and ponds should be taken from below the surface.
- If it is not possible to send the sample to the lab immediately after collection, refrigerate until it is sent.
- Once you’ve sent your sample, your results will be emailed once completed. Turnaround time varies by analysis and season, but most sample results will be sent within 1-3 days of the samples arriving at the lab. You will receive an invoice with the results, payable by check, credit card or through our online portal.
Household/Brewery Water Sampling Procedure:
- Use a clean plastic container for submitting your sample. Any clean plastic bottle will work. Bottles can be obtained from the laboratory here.
- Let water run for five minutes.
- Rinse the container several times with water that is being sampled and then fill the sample bottle. Send at least one-half pint of water to be tested.
- If it is not possible to send the sample to the lab immediately after collection, refrigerate until it is sent.
- Once you’ve sent your sample, your results will be emailed once completed. Turnaround time varies by analysis and season, but most sample results will be sent within 1-3 days of the samples arriving at the lab. You will receive an invoice with the results, payable by check, credit card or through our online portal.
Bacteria Water Sampling Procedure:
- Samples will be accepted MONDAY THROUGH THURSDAY ONLY between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Samples must be submitted to the lab within 24 hours after sampling to ensure accurate results. Keep samples cool during transport.
- Bottles containing a preservative specific to bacteria testing are available from the lab and can be ordered here. If you should need other analyses besides bacteria, please submit an additional sample in a clean plastic bottle.
- Avoid contaminating your sample. Carefully remove lid from enclosed sample bottle without touching the inside of the cap or threaded area of the bottle.
- DO NOT rinse bottle. Remove screen or strainer from an indoor water tap spigot (if one is present).
- Sterilize spout by flaming briefly with a match or lighter. You can also sterilize by swabbing with rubbing alcohol.’
- Allow water to run freely for FIVE MINUTES before collecting sample.
- Fill bottle to line. Replace lid and apply tape over the top before mailing.
- If you have any questions, please call the lab prior to taking samples at 308-234-2418.
- Once you’ve submitted your sample, your results will be emailed once completed. Turnaround time varies by analysis and season, but most sample results will be sent within 1-3 days of the samples arriving at the lab. You will receive an invoice with the results, payable by check, credit card or through our online portal.