- What is this program about? HLF is launching a local program this summer to help landowners surrounding Higgins Lake to know what is in their water. Property owners with wells in Gerrish, Lyon and Beaver Townships are all invited to pick up a free water test kit, sample their well water and return the test to learn if their water is clean or if it contains contaminants. It’s good for the community and it helps HLF better understand the water quality within the watershed.
- When does the program run? The program runs June 10 – Sept. 30.
- Why should I get my water tested? It’s important to know what is in the water you and your family drink. If you have a well, sometimes contaminants, like bacteria, nitrates, and nitrites can find their way in. Although they can’t be seen, they can be harmful even in small amounts, especially to infants and other vulnerable groups. A quick and free test can help you know if your water is safe and healthy or if you need to do more.
- What is being tested? What is not? This program is looking for evidence of harmful bacteria. It tests for E. Coli, Total Coliform, Nitrites, and Nitrates. It does not test for PFAS or other chemicals.
- How often should I test my water? According to the state of Michigan, you should test your water annually.
- Where do I pick up a free testing kit? Testing kits can be picked up at the Higgins Lake Foundation Office @ 207 Terrace Drive in Roscommon, MI.
- Where do I drop off my water sample? Participants must return their water sample directly to Raven Analytical Laboratory within 30 hours after collection, to obtain valid results. Raven Labs is open Mon-Thurs, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
- I know my drinking water is fine – can I test my outside water instead? You should be testing unfiltered water as close to your well as possible, either where it is coming into the house from the well or the closest outside spigot. Even if your filtration system is working well, you should know if bacteria or nitrates/nitrites are in your water. Test your water before it enters the filter so you know what you might be facing if the filter stops working.
- Could I get two tests – one for water inside and one to test my water outside? Unfortunately, not. Our funding only covers one test per home. However, you can contact the local Raven Laboratories office to set up as many tests as you want at your own expense.
- I’m on city water (don’t have a well), but would still like a free test. Can I participate in the program? No, unfortunately our funding only covers testing on residential wells. You can contact the city water department to find out more about what kind of regular testing they conduct on the water they treat before it gets to your home.
- My property recently flooded – is there a chance my water is now contaminated? If you have a private well and have experienced flooding, it’s important to test your water before using it. Floodwater can carry bacteria and other contaminants, even if your water appears clear.
- Who is eligible to participate in the program? Property owners in Beaver, Gerrish and Lyon Township who have a well.
- How will I receive my results? Raven Laboratories will send you your results.
- Why do I have to sign a consent? The consent form is there for transparency – to make sure everything is clear and understood before you participate. It helps explain what to expect and confirms that your participation is voluntary.
- Will anyone else receive a copy of my results? The Higgins Lake Foundation will receive a copy. Additionally, testing results may be shared with health organizations or environmental agencies to better understand water quality in the Higgins Lake watershed.
- How will the HLF use my data? The HLF will use the data collected to better understand any water quality issues in the watershed and may be summarized to look at overall trends.
- Should I expect someone to contact me, if my results indicate a problem? No one will contact you. It is up to you to reach out for any type of follow up or for additional information. The Higgins Lake Foundation does not provide analysis or consultation.
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