About

Testing your water and well water ensures that your water is safe to drink. The Adams County Conservation District has partnered with Laboratory, Analytical & Biological Services (LABS), INC in New Oxford to provide water testing for our local community. 

• Containers for samples may be obtained from the District office.
• Water samples may be taken to LABS Monday through Thursday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm and Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. Friday sample cut-off is 2 pm for testing listed on the price sheet. 
• Please call LABS with any questions: (717) 259-6550. 

Instructions

• Take the sample from a faucet that is in regular use, not from a hose or a seldom-used pipe. 
• The tap must be free of hose attachments and other water purification devices.
• Refrigerate all samples until delivered.
• If testing for lead, bacteria, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), please read the full instructions linked below for additional directions on how to take the sample. 

About

There are many ways homeowners can reduce stormwater runoff from their property. Reducing runoff and helping rain water and snow melt infiltrate back into the ground helps reduce the risk of flooding, improve water quantity and quality, and protect streams and aquatic inhabitants. These "things" than can be done are called Best Management Practices (BMPs). 

BMP options range from something as simple as disconnecting a down spout and adding a rain barrel to installing vegetated swales, rain gardens, or pervious pavement.   

Resources

Learn more about what you can do:

DEP's guide to residential stormwater BMPs

The District promotes the use of rain barrels and constructs and sells them to the public from reused food grade barrels.

About

Bat and bird boxes are a great way to provide a safe home for bats and birds on your property. They also present the opportunity to observe and study local wildlife.

Bats eat mosquitos, beetles and other backyard pests, as well as insects detrimental to farm crops. Bats also pollinate flowers.

Bird boxes provide a safe place to build nests, but birds also help control pests and weeds, pollinate plants, and help spread seeds.  

Resources

If you're handy, the PA Game Commission provides plans with printable instructions for all kinds of habitat boxes through their publication Woodcrafting for Wildlife 

The District also sells pre-assembled bat and bird boxes for your convenience.