Water

We use a variety of methods to test water for animals at Rock River Laboratory, Inc. Nitrate-Nitrogen (NO₃-N), Sulfate (SO₄), Chlorine (Cl₂), and Hardness are all tested using a spectrophotometer. Here we add chemicals to your samples, allow time for color to develop, and then read the intensity of color in your sample. The more color that develops, the greater is the test value for your sample.

A similar process tests the minerals in your water samples as the minerals in your feed samples. Here, nitric acid is added to your water sample, and the minerals are read on our ICP. The ICP is a torch that superheats the sample, and reads the amount of light given off by the various elements that we are looking for.

To help you interpret your water results for animals, we use the Zinpro recommendations. Zinpro (see www.Zinpro.com for more information) is a trace mineral supplemental supplier that is very active in research. Please note, Rock River Laboratory, Inc. is not certified for testing water supplies for human consumption. If you require testing of a water sample for human consumption, please see the DNR for a list of certified laboratories. At Rock River Laboratory, Inc., we are dedicated to the testing needs of agriculture.

view instructions for taking a water sample