Homeowners in the Milton-Freewater area can have their groundwater wells tested for free as part of a study by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

DEQ is conducting a statewide monitoring program to identify areas where local groundwater might be vulnerable to contamination. The Walla Walla Basin was chosen as a study area based on information about the aquifer, historic real estate transaction, geology, soils and gaps in the current data set.

Testing will be done on a volunteer basis. DEQ is looking for volunteers around Milton-Freewater, including areas west of Umapine, Highway 11 along Dry Creek, the lower part of Pine Creek, both the north and south forks of the Walla Walla River, Mill Creek and down south toward Tollgate.

It is ultimately up to the landowner what to do with the results of the tests. Public water suppliers are required to test water on a regular basis, but private wells are not required to test unless the property is transferred.

All results are public record — however, addresses and names will not be made available to the public. DEQ will test for things like nitrates, arsenic, pesticides, selected metals and bacteria. Groundwater can be contaminated by both surface and sub-surface pollution sources, such as applying chemicals or on-site septic systems.

The testing process should only take about 30-45 minutes and the homeowner does not need to be present. DEQ will send test results to the well owners and residents on the property.

Testing is scheduled during the weeks of Sept. 19 and Sept. 26. To volunteer, call 503-693-5736 or email Groundwater.Monitoring@deq.state.or.us. Participants must have spigot access to their water before any treatment or filtration occurs.