Since 2005, the Hartland Conservation Commission has been conducting water testing at several sites along Lull's Brook and at Sumner's Falls. The data from this testing are available below. 

The Commission chose testing sites along Lull's Brook originally because the Lull's Brook watershed lies almost entirely within the borders of Hartland and encompasses nearly half the Town. It is fed by the waters of Cady Brook, Densmore Brook, Alder Meadow Brook, and Weed Brook. Flowing past both Hartland Four Corners and the Three Corners Village, the brook eventually empties into the Connecticut River. This means that rainfall landing on the hillsides along many of the Town's roads, from Mace Hill Road and Hartland Hill Road to Reeves Road and Rice Road, contributes to the flow and the quality of the brook's water. Sumner's Falls was added as a test site when it became a Hartland Public Park. 

We test water temperature, and for E.coli and phosphorous. E.coli is a bacterium that can cause serious illness. It comes largely from faulty septic systems and animal waste. The accepted State level of E.coli is up to 235 colony forming units (CFU) per 100 ml of water. 

Phosphorus is an essential mineral, but high levels can result in rapid algae growth, generating health concerns. Excess phosphorus generally results from faulty septic systems and improper application of fertilizers. The State has deemed levels below 0.027 mg/L of water to be safe. 

Water temperature is a strong indicator of dissolved oxygen in the water. Oxygen content in water has a profound effect on aquatic organisms. Cooler temperatures are better for oxygen content. 

We have had discussions with land owners on ways to stabilize stream banks in order to limit erosion and animal access to open water. Individuals can help prevent phosphorus contamination through the judicious use of fertilizers and proper maintenance of septic systems. Since most contamination seems to occur after heavy rain, it is probably wise to limit contact with surface water for a short period of time after such storm events.