I am looking for social marketing efforts aimed at encouraging more people to get their private well water tested for bacteria, nitrate and fluoride levels. I am particularly interested in methods to encourage rural populations with lower literacy levels. If you have any information that could point me in the right direction, that would be appreciated.
Linda Dimock,
Public Health Planner (Environments)
Environmental Health & Lifestyle Resources
Public Health,
99 Regina St. S.,
Waterloo, ON N2J 4V3
Tel: 883-2008 ext. 5339
Fax: 883-2226
[email protected]
Private Well Water Testing
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We have often seen when rural residents build a connection between their private water system (and wastewater system as well) and what they can do to protect their drinking water source, they better understand the need to test their private well on a regular basis. Though a series of grants, Oregon State University Extension has developed a webpage for private well owners - http://wellwater.oregonstate.edu/ - and has conducted a number of Rural Living Basic classes. These 'free' classes offer nitrate screening via a LaMotte kit, and teach rural residents how to maintain their well and septic systems. Surveys taken some months after participating in these classes indicate that most residents have taken more than one action to protect their drinking water source and the health of their family. Well water clinics are also held, which offer the free nitrate screening, some one-on-one time, but without the full Rural Living Basics class. Overall, these types of events can sometimes be catalysts for behavior change. Feel free to contact me if you want more specific information.
Audrey Eldridge
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
541-776-6010 x223
[email protected]
http://gwma.oregonstate.edu/