Well users can have their water quality checked next week.
The Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) is hosting a Prince William Drinking Water Clinic, according to a release from the county.
About 16,000 wells are located in the county, according to the Prince William County Health Department.
Extension Agent Paige Thacker says it’s important that residents have their well water checked on a regular basis.
“Ground water changes seasonally, and things people do up stream can affect the quality of the ground water feeding a well,” Thacker said. “Wildlife, pets, fertilizers and pesticides can also affect well water quality. A septic system failing can get into the ground water.”
Since it began testing well water in 2010, the VCE has discovered wells that have problems.
“We’ve had about 300 people go through the program, and every year, we found someone with significant problems, lead, coliform, or E. Coli,” Thacker said.
As part of the clinic, residents can have their well water tested for various elements, including iron and manganese. The testing, which will be done through the Virginia Household Water Quality Program, costs $55.
A session about “drinking water concerns” will kick off the clinic.
The session, which begins at 7 p.m. on Monday, will be held at the Board Chambers of the McCoart Government Center, at 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge.
Well water users can bring samples to the Virginia Cooperative Extension Office, 8033 Ashton Avenue in Manassas, between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
A result interpretation meeting will be offered on May 9 at 7 p.m. at the McCoart Government Center.
Elizabeth Ward, a master well volunteer, will speak with residents about how they can solve well water issues.
To register for the class or for more information, call 703-792-774 or email master_gardener@pwcgov.org.
