Calendar

The OSU Extension Service is offering a free well water nitrate screening for well owners. A portion of the Southern Willamette Valley has been designated as a Groundwater Management Area by the Department of Environmental Quality due to elevated nitrate levels in well water. While it is especially important for households with pregnant women or newborns to test for nitrate because of a rare type of blue-baby syndrome, all homes with private wells should be aware of their nitrate level. 

For a free nitrate screening, bring ½ cup of untreated well water in a clean, water-tight container. You may either wait for your results (the test takes 5 to 10 minutes if the well water clinic is not busy), or leave your contact information for the results to be delivered after the clinic date.

 Local clinics are currently scheduled for:

• November 10th  at the Albany Farmers  Market, Downtown Albany from 9:00am to 1:00pm
• Bring a sample anytime from 8:00am to 5:00pm to the OSU Extension Service of Benton County office for screening. Located at 4077 SW Research Way in Corvallis.

A water quality educator will be available during clinic times to answer questions about well water and septic tank issues. For additional information on well water and septic systems, free Rural Living Basics classes, and other nitrate screening events visit the OSU Extension Service website http://extension.oregonstate.edu/benton

For more information call 541-766-3556.

• Benton County
• Groundwater Stewardship*
• Linn County
• Oregon Well Water Program
• Small Farms