Residents of Botetourt County who rely on private wells, springs, or cisterns for their household water supply will soon have an opportunity to ensure the safety and quality of their drinking water. The Virginia Household Water Quality Program (VAHWQP), through Virginia Cooperative Extension, is once again offering affordable water testing and expert guidance to help protect the health of Virginians.
The upcoming water clinic is a convenient and cost-effective way for homeowners to test their water for common contaminants. Participants will receive a comprehensive analysis conducted by Virginia Tech and learn how to interpret their results and address any identified issues.
Sample kits can be picked up on Monday, Sept. 15, between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the Botetourt County Extension Office at 9 West Main Street, Fincastle. Water samples must be collected and returned to the same location on Wednesday, Sept. 17, between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.
Samples will be analyzed at Virginia Tech, and confidential results will be emailed to participants approximately five weeks after the drop-off date. The email will include an easy-to-understand explanation of the results and practical recommendations for improving water quality if necessary.
Registration is required to participate. The preferred method is to register online using a credit card by visiting https://www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu/. Click on the appropriate “Add to Cart” button and follow the prompts. If you encounter issues with registration, you can contact the helpline at vceprograms@mail.ext.vt.edu.
For those who prefer to pay by cash, check, or money order, email vceprograms@mail.ext.vt.edu for assistance in arranging registration and payment. The registration fee is $70 per kit.
The deadline to register is Monday, Sept. 15, by 5 p.m. No refunds will be given after this date. Refunds issued before the deadline will incur a $5 processing fee.
For more information about the program, visit https://www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu/.
Private water sources are not regulated like public water systems, meaning the responsibility for water testing and maintenance falls entirely on the homeowner. Regular testing is essential for detecting harmful substances such as bacteria, lead, nitrates, and more—many of which are colorless, tasteless, and odorless.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
