Pennsylvania residents who rely on private wells, springs or cisterns for drinking water will have an opportunity later this month to learn how to better protect their water supplies and receive free water testing through an upcoming Penn State Extension webinar.
The virtual program, “Private Water Supply Education and Water Testing,” will be held on June 24 from 1 to 2 p.m. Registration is free, but participants must register by 12:45 p.m. on the day of the event.
According to Penn State Extension, more than one million homes and farms across Pennsylvania depend on private water supplies rather than public water systems. The webinar is designed to help homeowners understand potential risks to their drinking water and learn practical steps for maintaining a safe and reliable water source.
Topics will include how to test and protect private wells and springs, when water treatment may be appropriate, and how regular inspection and maintenance can help safeguard both individual water systems and shared groundwater resources.
A key feature of the program is a complimentary water test available to eligible participants. To qualify, residents must attend the live webinar, use a private water supply at their primary residence, and submit a water sample using materials provided after the event. Only one free test is available per household.
Water samples will be analyzed by a Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection-accredited laboratory. Testing will screen for a range of contaminants and water quality indicators, including bacteria, pH, nitrate, manganese, lead, copper, barium, sodium, and arsenic.
Organizers note that many of these substances cannot be detected by taste, odor, or appearance and may pose potential health risks if present at elevated levels.
The webinar is open to Pennsylvania residents whose primary homes use a private well, spring, or cistern. Seasonal properties, camps, and vacation homes are not eligible for the free testing program.
Funding for the program is provided through a cooperative agreement between the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Environmental Health Capacity Building Initiative, along with support from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Master Well Owner Network grant program.
Penn State Extension officials said the workshop is intended to provide homeowners with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about water quality, system maintenance, and treatment options.
Preregistration is required. Additional information and registration are available through Penn State Extension’s website.
Source: Penn State Extension, Watershed Alliance of Adams County