Program Overview

Private Wells and Water Systems Management

This online course is designed to educate homeowners, real estate professionals, and contractors on the proper management of private wells, springs, and cisterns. The course covers topics such as:

• Identifying different types of water supplies
• Distinguishing between proper and potentially unsafe locations for wells, springs, and cisterns
• Identifying common groundwater problems
• Choosing the right type of water tests and treatment strategies

Course Details

• Duration: 4 hours
• Language: English
• Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
• Certificate: Available upon successful completion
• Instructors:
  • Jeremy Leaidicker, Master Watershed Steward Coordinator, Susquehanna County
  • Susan Boser, Extension Educator, Renewable Natural Resources
  • Andy Yencha, Extension Educator, Renewable Natural Resources
  • Jennifer R Fetter, Director, Center for Agriculture Conservation Assistance Training
  • Bryan Swistock, Former Senior Extension Associate; Water Resources Coordinator, Pennsylvania State University

Course Content

The course consists of five sections, each with a quiz. Participants must achieve a score of 80% or higher on the quizzes to pass the course and receive a certificate of completion.

Fees and Registration

• Course Fee: $39.00
• Registration: Available online, with options to register as an individual or a group.

Additional Resources

• A Guide to Private Water Systems in Pennsylvania: A guide available for purchase, covering the proper construction and maintenance of private wells, springs, and cisterns.
• Protecting Your Water Well: A video discussing steps to protect and manage private water wells.
• Coliform Bacteria: An article describing coliform bacteria, their sources, and removal methods.
• Understanding Bottled Water: An article covering the sources, regulations, and management of bottled water.
• Hydrogen Sulfide (Rotten Egg Odor) in Water Wells: An article discussing hydrogen sulfide, its sources, and treatment options.
• Bacterias Coliformes: An article in Spanish describing coliform bacteria, their sources, and removal methods.
• Funding for Private Well and Septic System Repairs: An article discussing financial assistance options for homeowners.
• Lead in Drinking Water: An article covering lead in drinking water, its effects, and reduction methods.
• Gas Metano y su Eliminación de Pozos de Agua: An article in Spanish discussing methane in water wells, its sources, and removal methods.
• Nitratos en el Agua Potable: An article in Spanish covering nitrates in drinking water, their effects, and treatment options.