It's the one that bears watching in any future studies. South Dakota has much lower pesticide concentrations in its water than do other agricultural states, German added. The Water Quality Laboratory at the Institute serves both scientists and the general public, providing analytical services for the determination of organic and inorganic constituents in water, said German. Along with individual mineral analyses, the lab technicians conduct several package analyses. One package, the livestock suitability analysis, is most often used by rural landowners who have their own wells.
Individuals receive a report showing results of the analysis.
Information detailing why the high mineral content is a problem and what options for treatment could be taken is included at no additional cost. If, for instance, their cows are in danger of having acute problems or dying, I'll write them a letter pointing out how severe the problem is and giving recommendations for what they should do. Irrigation analyses utilize soil and aquifer maps from the USGS to help a farmer decide if water from a new well is suitable for irrigating specific types of soil. Being located on the campus of the largest university in the state has its advantages. The Institute draws from the large population of undergraduate students on campus for research and laboratory support staff.