Water Lab

The Victoria City-County Health Department Water Laboratory is certified by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to conduct bacteriological testing of public and private (wells) drinking water. To maintain state certification, the laboratory conducts required proficiency testing and completes quality assurance and quality control exercises on a daily basis.

The Victoria City-County Health Department Water Laboratory tests for coliform bacteria in drinking water. Coliforms are found in the lower intestinal tract of human beings and other warm-blooded animals. These groups of microorganisms do not cause disease, but are easier to detect than disease-causing microorganisms. When coliform organisms are detected in a water sample it is an indication that feces may have contaminated the water. Evidence of feces in the water may also be an indication that disease-causing microorganisms, often found in the intestinal tract of human beings and other warm-blooded animals, are also present. If coliform is detected in a water sample, immediate disinfection should follow.

How to Collect a Water Sample

Obtain a copy of the  Collection Instructions and a sterile collection bottle from one of the following locations:

Victoria City-County Health Department
2805 N. Navarro
Victoria, Texas 77901

Calhoun County Health Department 
117 W. Ash
Lavaca, Texas 77979

Dewitt County Health Department
106 N. Gonzalez
Cuero, Texas 77954

Jackson County Health Department
411 N. Wells Room 107
Edna, Texas 77957

 

Collect the sample and complete the Sample Collection Form. Submit the sample, sample collection form, and sample fee to the Victoria City-County Health Department. Samples must be tested within 30 hours from the time of collection. Results are typically ready within 24 hours from the time the test begins.

Monday     8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.  Submit by 3:00 P.M. for next day results
Tuesday    8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.  Submit by 3:00 P.M. for next day results  Wednesday  8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.  Submit by 3:00 P.M. for next day results
Thursday   8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon Submit by Noon for next day results

Schedule is subject to change during county observed holidays.

Results are mailed daily to the address on the sample collection form. If the sample tests positive, follow the  Procedures for Positive Results to disinfect the well.