Beginning this week the Oregon State University Extension Service will begin to offer free well water nitrate screenings for domestic well users in Lane County.
Elsewhere in the region, Linn and Benton OSU Extension Service offices already offer this service. While it is especially important for all households to do regular well water screenings, the Extension Service especially encourage homes with small children, newborns and pregnant women to test for nitrate because of a rare type of blue-baby syndrome,.
All residents with private household wells should be aware of their nitrate level. The nitrate ion moves easily through the soil profile (especially during the rainy season) making it a contaminant of concern, but also an indicator to check for other surface-based contaminants.
For a free nitrate screening, bring one-half cup of untreated well water in a clean, water-tight container to the Lane County Extension Service office. Choose a container that you are comfortable not getting back and clearly mark your contact information on it, just in case one of the trained testers is not in. If they are in, the test takes about 10 minutes to complete.
The Extension Service is offering a one-day, drop-in well water nitrate screening event on Friday, May 7, from 9 a.m. – 5 pm. at its Lane County Office, 996 Jefferson St, Eugene. Screenings are also available on other days by appointment only. Call the office at 541-344-5859to make an appointment to bring in samples for screening.
For additional information on well water and septic systems, free Rural Living Basics classes (offered remotely), and other nitrate screening opportunities visit http://wellwater.oregonstate.edu.
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