Free Well Water Screening Clinic Set For Paynesville

(KNSI) – Private well owners in the Paynesville area can have their drinking water tested at no cost next month.

The Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District is holding a free well water screening clinic Wednesday, September 2nd from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Paynesville American Legion, 770 Diekmann Drive.

Samples will be screened onsite for nitrates and chlorides, two of the most common contaminants found in Minnesota groundwater. Lab-certified arsenic tests will also be offered at a discounted rate of $25 through Traut Companies.

Well owners are asked to bring one quart of cold tap water from their kitchen sink in a clean container. Households using any treatment system other than a water softener should bring two samples — one taken before treatment and one after, with each clearly labeled.

Groundwater experts will be on hand during the clinic for free consultations on well and drinking water concerns.

Those who can’t attend during clinic hours can drop off a sample at the Legion between 7:00 a.m. and noon that same day. Results will be emailed.

Pre-registration is encouraged. A registration form is available at StearnsCD.org/WellScreening. More information is available by calling 320-251-7800, extension 3.

___