OSU Extension to offer well-water course in Stayton

Many of the region’s rural denizens may find this free clinic useful.

Oregon State University Extension Service will  hold an evening course on the safety of groundwater resources with an emphasis on drinking-water wells and septic systems.

The class, “Rural Living Basics: Living with your Well and Septic System,” is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at the Stayton Community Center, 400 W. Virginia St. It includes a nitrate screening; doors will open at 5:45 p.m. for people who wish to take part in that.

Extension education program assistant Chrissy Lucas will conduct the clinic, and participants who wish to have their water screened for nitrate should bring ½ cup of untreated water to class in a clean, water-tight container.

Lucas said nitrate has been associated with a type of blue-baby syndrome, and there are emerging concerns about additional health problems associated with it in drinking water.

Lucas noted that the areas at greatest risk for high nitrate in the Willamette Valley are those with well-drained soils on the valley floor, and that all homes with private wells should be actively monitored for nitrate levels.

While the free course is open to all, attendees should RSVP to ensure adequate supplies are on hand. Contact Lucas at (541) 766-3556 or Chrissy.Lucas@oregonstate.edu.

For information, visit http://wellwater.oregonstate.edu.