Pittsburgh area residents who rely on wells or natural springs can get a free test of their water’s quality.
The tests are being done as part of a research study by Duquesne University professor John F. Stolz, who is creating a map of water well and spring locations throughout the area to try to identify sources and pathways of contamination.
In addition to testing the water, residents will be asked to complete a survey that includes questions about the type of well they use, its depth, quantity and quality of water and whether any changes have occurred during the past several years.
Water samples from the well or spring will be tested on site as well as sent to a lab for additional analysis. GPS coordinates for the well and spring also will be recorded.
The testing process will take about 30 minutes to complete. A summary and explanation of the test results will be mailed once the analysis is completed, which typically takes about six to eight weeks.
All information that is collected will be kept confidential — participants will not be identified in the reports or study information that is released.
To participate in the testing, send an email to graduate research assistant Dannielle Pratt at: prattd@duq.edu.
