The Dutchess County Department of Health's Environmental Laboratory is a New York State certified testing lab (ELAP #10189) which provides analysis of samples from municipal, government entities, and the private sector.
Testing includes:
- Bacteriological
- Chemical and physical testing of drinking water, surface water and wastewater effluents
- Sand analysis
- Thermometer calibrations
- Fees vary for services.
The laboratory also provides unbiased and accurate data for the Department of Health engineers and sanitarians to help ensure public health in Dutchess County.
The department has a staff of engineers and sanitarians that can give you free, unbiased advice on how to correct your water problems.
General Directions for Total Coliform Testing:
Obtain a sterile container (4 oz or larger). You can get one at any of our offices (Poughkeepsie (845) 486-3411; Millbrook (845) 677-4001; Beacon (845) 838-4801). Sterile specimen bottles are also available at the drugstore or to sterilize the container yourself, boil a container and lid in a rolling boil for five minutes.
Remove aerator/strainer from kitchen sink (avoid taking samples from outside taps, leaky faucets, hoses, hydrants, through filters, and water softeners).
Run cold water for at least five minutes.
Fill container and close lid.
Bring sample to 387 Main Street within 24 hours of collection.
For tests other than total coliform, please call our office for directions.
There are fees for services.
For more information, please call (845) 486-3411.
