The mission of the EJ Water Cooperative Water Lab is to ensure the highest quality water testing services for our community. We are committed to supporting public health and environmental quality by providing reliable, accurate, and timely analytical testing for water quality.
Our Team
Our team of water analysts use approved laboratory methods and techniques in agreement with the current editions of Standard Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater, and Official Methods of Analysis of the AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists). “EJ Water has great resources and great people to ensure we are delivering the highest quality and best tasting water to our members.” says Doug Baxter, Water Quality Sampler.
Water Lab Services
Our Water Lab offers a diverse range of services from boil orders to microbiological testing. Learn more about each service:
- Routine Coliform Samples – The EPA requires water systems to routinely test for coliform/e. coli in their water. Routine samples are pulled from raw water, finished water, and water that is in distribution.
- New Construction – As of 2019, new construction samples may be analyzed using the presence/absence method (instead of the membrane filtration method). New construction samples require a permit number and two samples (taken more than 24 hours apart).
- Boil Orders – Precautionary boil orders are announced when pressure in water lines is reduced. Boil orders can be lifted after a satisfactory sample is returned, which confirms no pathogens entered the water line.
- Microbiological Testing – Our team of water analysts are highly trained to analyze water samples for microbiological testing and the presence or absence of Coliform and E.coli.
Who the Lab Serves
The Water Lab proudly serves as the primary testing facility for our own samples, but we also extend our expertise to neighboring communities. For those seeking routine coliform analysis, boil order verification, new construction testing, or comprehensive microbiological assessment, our lab offers a convenient local solution. While regional alternatives exist in Mattoon, Springfield, and Peoria, our strategic location provides a cost-effective advantage for smaller communities within a 15-30 minute radius – eliminating shipping costs and reducing travel expenses with simple drop-off testing services.
Sample Submission
Submit a sample to our Water Lab by only using laboratory-supplied collection containers. Sample bottles must be filled to the fill line on the bottle. Include sample identification/location, collection date and time, sample type and collector’s name. Submit at least 100 mL of water within 30 hours of collection. Use the EJ Water submission form appropriate for sample type. You can view and fill out our EJ Water Lab Submission Form here.
Fulfilling Our Mission
Our Water Quality Sampler, Doug, says it best “Our mission is to supply safe, high-quality drinking water to our members. Water Lab allows us to extend our mission to neighboring communities by providing routine and boil order testing so they too can ensure a safe drinking water supply. We are truly living up to our motto – ‘Improving the Quality of Life, the Cooperative Way’!” Learn more about our Water Lab, and how it benefits our community here.
