Benton County Health Department is partnering with OSU Extension Service to offer domestic well testing at no cost to households in Benton County. The goal of the partnership is to test up to 200 domestic wells countywide by June 30, 2025.
The program involves an OSU intern collecting samples from the wells of participants and testing the samples for arsenic, coliform bacteria, and nitrate, all of which can cause health issues if not properly treated. After collection, the samples will be analyzed, and program participants will be invited to free community educational seminars to learn how to interpret results and what to do if these contaminants are detected in their well water samples.
“It’s important to test your water regularly, since these contaminants have the potential to cause short- and long- term health issues. You can’t see, smell or taste these in your water, so testing is the only way to know if these contaminants are present,” said Chrissy Lucas, Outreach Program Coordinator for OSU Extension
OSU Extension is planning to host free community educational seminars in the following locations, and more details including dates and venues will be shared when available:
- Monroe/Alpine
- Alsea
- Philomath
- Blodgett/Kings Valley
Households in rural communities and those who meet low-income thresholds are a priority for this program and will be given preference based on level of need.
“Approximately 23% of Oregonians use private wells as their primary source of drinking water. We are thrilled to partner with OSU Extension to offer this vital service, especially at no-cost to community members,” said Scott Kruger, Environmental Health Manager for Benton County
People interested in participating in the program should submit an interest form at: https://beav.es/GZh.
For questions, please contact Chrissy Lucas at chrissy.lucas@oregonstate.edu or 541-713-5009.
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