Well Water
Nitrate testing
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends private wells be tested for nitrate every year. Nitrate occurs naturally and at safe and healthy levels in some foods (such as spinach and carrots) and comes from natural processes, such as plant decay. High levels of nitrate in water can be a result of runoff or leakage from fertilized soil, wastewater, landfills, animal feedlots, septic systems, or urban drainage.
To test your well water, you can bring a fresh water sample (taken the same day of analysis) to the Crow Wing SWCD office. To take your sample, run your cold tap for five to 10 minutes, then collect about one cup of water in a plastic baggie (double bag) or clean jar. Keep the water cool until arrival.
You may bring a water sample, during business hours, to:
Crow Wing SWCD-Land Services Building
322 Laurel Street, Suite 22
Brainerd, MN 56401
218-828-6197
Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Nitrate Clinic Dates:
Brainerd Land Services-322 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN 56401
Aug 8th, 2025 9am to 3pm
Garrison City Office (27069 Central St, Garrison, MN 56450)
Aug 14th, 2025 9am to 3pm
Crosslake City Hall (13888 Daggett Bay Rd, Crosslake, MN 56442)
Aug 22nd, 2025 9am to 3pm
While we are not a Minnesota Department of Health accredited laboratory, our free nitrate testing can offer preliminary results and/or peace of mind. If you wish to get a certified nitrate result or get any other types of water tests done, visit:
A.W. Research Laboratories
314 Charles Street, Brainerd, MN