Water testing
The quality of water from bores, wells, creeks, rivers and farm dams can vary widely. Common problems include hardness, iron and salinity. Water quality can impact on plant growth and animal production, and can affect irrigation equipment.
NSW Department of Primary Industries' Environmental Laboratories provide a water testing service for farmers and graziers wishing to determine the suitability of their water for agricultural and domestic applications. Sampling kits are available from all Departmental offices. Standard laboratory reports provide detailed information on pH, salinity, chloride, alkalinity, turbidity, hardness, saturation index, sodium absorption ratio and electrical conductivity.
Testing for nutrients, pesticide residues and blue-green algae is also available.
Further informationWater for human consumption
NSW Department of Primary Industries does not undertake testing of water for human consumption. Contact either the Health Inspector at the Local Council, or the NSW Department of Health's Water Laboratory, Lidcombe regarding any testing for human consumption:
NSW Health
Division of Analytical Laboratories
Weerona Road
LIDCOMBE NSW 2141