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.)