Did you know that private water supplies like wells and springs are unregulated? It is the responsibility of the homeowner to regularly test water quality, maintain the water system, and address any problems. Affordable water testing and education will be offered through Virginia Cooperative Extension offices in Patrick County.
Pick up your kits on April 15 and 16 from 8:30-4:30 at the Patrick County Extension Office, and plan to drop off your samples on April 22 from 7:30 until 9 a.m. at the Stuart Farmers Market. Participation is voluntary.
Water samples collected by participating homeowners will be analyzed for 28 parameters, including bacteria, metals, nitrate and hardness at a cost of $70.
Results and water system care and maintenance information will be sent to each participant either by email or mail, and a pre-recorded video will be made available to help explain the summary results and recommendations to address problems. All information is kept strictly confidential.
Contact George Stovall at 276-694-3341 or gstovall@vt.edu to register. For more information about the Virginia Household Water Quality Program, as well as many resources relevant to private water systems, please visit www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu.
