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Water Testing Drop Off Hours:
Monday - Wednesday 8AM-11AM; 1PM-3PM
Thursday 8AM-11AM
2 days before a holiday 8AM-11AM
*Schedule is subject to change during county observed holidays*

Location:
2805 N. Navarro Victoria TX 77901

Phone: (361) 578-6281 option 2

The Victoria County Public Health Department is certified by the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) to perform bacteriological testing of public and private (wells) drinking water. VCPHD water laboratory is audited every two years by TCEQ to evaluate the extent of conformance to the standards adopted by the NELAP Institute and the rules enacted by the State of Texas for environmental laboratories. The VCPHD also performs yearly internal audits to ensure the standards are being followed. Proficiency Tests and Ethics Training are given yearly to all laboratory technicians to ensure the quality of the water testing.

The Victoria County Public Health Department Water Laboratory tests for Total Coliform and E. coli in drinking water. Total Coliforms include bacteria that are found in the soil, in the water that has been influenced by surface water, and in human or animal waste. E.coli is a type of fecal coliform commonly found in the intestines of warm blooded animals and humans. The presence of E. coli in water is a strong indication of recent sewage or animal waste contamination.

How to Collect a Water Sample

Sample Bottle Guidelines and Example   

 

To obtain water sample bottle and form go by the following locations:

Victoria County Public Health Department                                    Calhoun County Floodplain
2805 N. Navarro                                                                             211 S. Ann Rm. 301
Victoria, Texas 77901                                                                      Port Lavaca, Texas 77979

Dewitt County Health Department                                                City of Yoakum
115 N. Gonzalez                                                                             808 HWY 77 South
Cuero, Texas 77954                                                                        Yoakum, Texas 77995 

Jackson County Groundwater District Office
411 N. Wells, Suite 118
Edna, Texas 77957
(Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

Bottle with arrows
Corrected Bottle with Arrows

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Coliform Bacteria?
Coliforms are a group of bacteria that serve as indicators of the microbial quality of water.

Are coliforms harmful?
Most coliform bacteria are not disease causing, but their presence indicates the potential for disease causing bacteria to be present. Presence of E.coli indicates fecal pollution and the possible presence of pathogens.

Should I have my water well tested?
It is recommended to test private water wells once a year.

What should I do if I have coliforms in my well?
If you have a private well it is recommended to disinfect your water well. If your sample is positive for Total Coliform or E. coli the instructions for disinfecting the water well will be given to you with your sample results.

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are available the next day after 4:30PM