What’s in your water? 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, confidential water testing and education will be offered through Virginia Cooperative Extension Office in Botetourt County. Pick up the kits on August 17 at the Botetourt Extension Office, 9 West Main Street in Fincastle. Plan to drop off samples on August 19 at the Extension Office. Following physical distancing measures, staff will be in the parking lot to collect samples curbside.
Participation is voluntary and confidential. Water samples collected by participating homeowners will be analyzed for 14 parameters, including bacteria, metals, nitrate and hardness at a cost of $60. Results and water system care and maintenance information will be sent to each participant either by email or mail, and a pre-recorded or live video presentation will be made available to help explain the summary results and recommendations to address problems. All information is kept strictly confidential.
Contact Kate Lawrence at 473-8260 or MCL87@vt.edu to register. For more information about the Virginia Household Water Quality Program, as well as many resources relevant to private water systems, visit www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu.
