Free nitrate testing for community members with domestic wells will be offered Sunday at the Philomath Farmers’ Market, the Oregon State University Extension Service announced. The event, which takes place in the parking lot in front of Philomath Community Library, runs from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
“Nitrate is a contaminant in groundwater that can cause many health issues,” OSU Extension Service wrote in a press release. “It is important to test at least once a year and regularly in homes with infants, pregnant women and immune-compromised individuals. It is not naturally occurring so if nitrate appears it is possible that other contaminants have reached the groundwater.”
Those who want to get a free nitrate test at the screening are asked to bring about half a cup of unfiltered well water in a clean container. The process will take about 10 minutes if the testing site is not busy. Various educational resources will be available concerning nitrate, other contaminants, well water and septic-related topics.
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 or call 541-713-5009.