By Amanda Johnson
Virginia Cooperative Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Agent
Thousands of households across the Northern Shenandoah Valley rely on private wells for drinking water, yet many homeowners have never tested their water for contaminants. Because private wells are not regulated like public water systems, homeowners are responsible for monitoring their water quality and maintaining their well system.
To help residents better understand and protect their drinking water, Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Virginia Household Water Quality Program is offering a series of well water testing clinics across the Northern Shenandoah Valley this spring. Residents can choose from five clinic locations in Page, Frederick, Shenandoah, Warren, and Clarke counties.
These clinics provide an affordable and convenient opportunity for homeowners to test their water and learn how to protect their private water systems.
Why Well Water Testing Matters
Water from a private well may look, smell, and taste normal but still contain contaminants that can only be detected through laboratory testing. Groundwater moves slowly through layers of soil and rock, which means contaminants from surface activities—such as agriculture, septic systems, or runoff—can eventually reach wells.
Testing can identify potential concerns including:
• Bacteria, including E. coli
• Nitrate, which may come from fertilizers or septic systems
• Metals, such as iron, manganese, copper, or lead
• Hardness, which can cause mineral buildup in plumbing and appliances
• pH and other indicators that affect corrosion and water treatment systems
Testing helps identify both potential health concerns and common household water problems, such as staining, odors, corrosion, or scale buildup.
Experts recommend that private well owners test their water at least once a year for bacteria and nitrate and conduct more comprehensive testing every three to five years.
How the Program Works
Participants collect their own water sample using a testing kit provided by Virginia Cooperative Extension. Samples are analyzed in a certified laboratory for 28 water quality parameters.
The cost is $70 per sample.
Participants will receive:
• A confidential report explaining their water test results
• Educational materials on well maintenance and water quality
• Guidance on possible treatment options if concerns are identified
• Access to a results interpretation meeting or recorded presentation explaining the findings
All individual water test results are kept strictly confidential.
Regular testing is the only way to know what’s in your well water,” said Amanda Johnson, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension serving the Northern Shenandoah Valley. “These clinics help homeowners understand their results and learn practical steps they can take to maintain a safe and reliable water supply.”
Clinic Dates Across the Region
Residents may choose the clinic location that best fits their schedule.
Shenandoah, Warren, and Clarke Counties
• Kick-Off Meeting (Virtual or In-Person): April 27, 6:30 PM
• Sample Kit Pick-Up: April 27, 3:00–6:00 PM
• Sample Drop-Off: April 29, 7:00–10:00 AM
• Results Meetings: June 8 or June 9
Page and Frederick Counties
• Kick-Off Meeting (Virtual or In-Person): May 11, 6:30 PM
• Sample Kit Pick-Up: May 11, 3:00–6:00 PM
• Sample Drop-Off: May 13, 7:00–10:00 AM
• Results Meeting: June 23
Registration deadlines vary by location and space is limited.
To view the full schedule and register for the clinic that works best for you, visit:
https://warren.ext.vt.edu/news/NSV-Water-Clinics.html
Protect Your Household Water
More than one million Virginians rely on private wells for their drinking water. Regular testing helps homeowners detect potential problems early and make informed decisions about water treatment and system maintenance.
For additional information about private wells and water system care, visit the Virginia Household Water Quality Program website at:
For questions about the clinics, residents may contact their local Virginia Cooperative Extension office or Amanda Johnson at [email protected]
