Access to clean drinking water is an assumed element of modern society. Despite significant advancements in water treatment and infrastructure, ensuring the safety and purity of drinking water remains a critical public health challenge that requires a persistent and dedicated effort by many parties to overcome. The recent emergence of contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and the latest legislative developments centered on water quality standards demonstrates the growing need for water testing in both the public and private sectors.
The State of Michigan’s $290 million expansion of the MI Clean Water Plan aims to bolster Michigan’s drinking water infrastructure, addressing crucial issues such as lead service line removals and plant upgrades. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure all residents have access to clean and safe drinking water and reflects a significant investment in public health. Michigan’s Filter First program is another current state legislation that requires all schools and childcare centers to develop a Drinking Water Management Plan and install lead-reducing filters on all consumptive fixtures, including regularly testing the filtered water.
Additionally, the Federal Administration has released new national standards to limit PFAS in drinking water with the goal to reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are linked to severe health problems including cancer, thyroid disease, and reproductive issues. With portions of the U.S. drinking water supply potentially affected by PFAS, the need for reliable testing and filtration has never been more urgent in protecting public health.
How can we help?
Prein&Newhof’s environmental laboratory has long-standing expertise and a commitment to quality. Since 1974, our laboratory has been providing water testing, serving municipal, commercial, and residential clients throughout Michigan communities. Our lab performs nearly 18,000 microbiology tests annually, alongside a variety of tests for metals, organics, inorganics, and compliance monitoring. This extensive testing capacity is needed to identify contaminants in various water sources, including drinking water, well water, wastewater, groundwater, leachate, and surface water.
PFAS Water Testing: Prein&Newhof is certified for PFAS testing and follows EPA methodologies to provide accurate and reliable results. We offer both drinking water and wastewater testing for PFAS, with the capacity to test for multiple PFAS compounds. Our services are designed to be comprehensive, from sample collection to result interpretation, and we aim to help clients understand the implications of their water quality test results.
Lead and Copper Testing: Prein&Newhof also specializes in testing for lead and copper in drinking water. This is particularly relevant for Michigan schools and childcare centers, who are now required under the State’s previously mentioned Filter First legislation.
How do we support public health?
Prein&Newhof’s laboratory is certified by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for a broad range of testing capabilities. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, scientifically sound test results aids in protecting public health by providing essential data that informs water treatment decisions and regulatory compliance.
Our laboratory’s services are tailored to meet diverse client needs, offering both on-site sample collection and drop-off options at multiple office locations. This flexibility allows testing to be accessible and convenient for our clients, from large municipalities and businesses to individual private homeowners. We also provide expedited services for high-priority projects and recognize that timely results are critical for effective response and remediation efforts.
We understand that clean drinking water is not just a necessity but an expectation of our society. In an era where contaminants like PFAS pose new challenges, the role of reliable water testing is more important than ever. Prein&Newhof’s environmental laboratory stands ready to utilize our expertise to provide test results for your drinking water. By supporting rigorous testing protocols and providing clear, reliable results, we are working to enable communities as they protect the quality of their drinking water.
Looking for more information on water testing services? Visit our website!
Want to schedule a water test? Contact Lab Manager Steve Bylsma at (616) 364–7600 or via email at sbylsma@preinnewhof.com.