The objective of this project is to ensure that those most susceptible to the health effects of nitrates, primarily infants and pregnant mothers, have access to safe drinking water. Visit Nitrate in drinking water for more information. Visit our drinking water testing page
How?
Check your eligibility. Contact your program coordinator or call 509-460-4256 to see if you are eligible.
Have your water tested for nitrate.
1. How to sample drinking water for nitrate test?
2. When can you bring water in for testing? Visit our Water Lab page and reference our hours below, OR contact your eligible program for directions on submitting a sample.
3. Please call 509-460-4205 for availability and for submitting samples outside of the recommended hours.
4. How to interpret the test result?
The drinking water quality standard for nitrate (measured as nitrogen) is 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Water with more than 10 mg/L of nitrate is considered a hazard for drinking, especially for infants and pregnant women.
If your water has a nitrate level at or exceeding 10.0 mg/L, you are eligible for alternative water assistance from our program. You will be offered a free countertop reverse osmosis unit for your home. This will help you access water with a safe nitrate level for drinking.
If your water has a nitrate level between 5.0-7.99 mg/L, your water is safe for drinking. However, we will offer a follow-up free test every 3-6 months to help you monitor nitrate levels in your water and ensure it remains at a safe level for drinking.
If your water has a nitrate level lower than 5.0 mg/L, congratulations! Your water has a safe nitrate level for drinking.
D. Obtain alternative water.
1. Countertop RO filter
2. Bottled water.
E. Follow-up
Working Hours: Lab service is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. During holidays, the Water Lab may adjust the above schedule. Please call 509-460-4206 to check the availability if you plan to submit the samples around the holidays.