The Texas Well Owner Network will offer free water well screening and an educational program particularly targeted to coastal counties because wells may have been impacted by floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey. Samples will be screened for common contaminants, including E. coli bacteria, nitrates and salinity.
The presence of E. coli bacteria in water indicates waste from humans or warm-blooded animals may have contaminated the water. Water contaminated with E. coli is also more likely to have pathogens that can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea or other health issues.
Pick up test kits containing sampling bags and bottles at the Aransas County AgriLife Extension office, 892 Airport Rd, Rockport. Follow directions carefully to ensure accurate results. Samples must be collected 24 hours or less before being brought back to the Extension office on Monday, January 29, 8:00–10:00 a.m.
A follow-up meeting, open to all, explaining the results will be held that evening at 6:00 p.m. at the AgriLife Extension office for Aransas County.
For more information on the screening, call Ginger Easton Smith, Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, AgriLife Extension at 361-790-0103. For more information on water wells, and to learn more about programs offered through the Texas Well Owner Network, go to http://twon.tamu.edu.
