What’s in your water? Virginia Cooperative Extension offices in Gloucester, Mathews and Middlesex counties can help you find the answer.

Maintaining the integrity of private water systems like wells and springs is the responsibility of the homeowner, who should regularly test water quality and address any problems that are uncovered, according to a Virginia Cooperative Extension release.

Affordable, confidential water testing and education will be offered through the local offices. Pick up a kit on Sept. 8, and plan to drop off samples the following morning. Physical distancing measures will be in place and masks are required. Participation is voluntary and confidential. Water samples collected by participating homeowners will be analyzed for 14 parameters, including bacteria, metals, nitrate and hardness at a cost of $60 (cash or check). Limited scholarship funds are available for limited-income households. For more information on scholarships, contact Glenn Sturm at gjsturm@vt...