Online Training for New Master Well Owners Starts February 6, 2012
Posted: January 3, 2012
Pennsylvania is home to over one million private water wells and springs but it is one of the few states that do not provide statewide regulations to protect these rural drinking water supplies.
In 2004, Penn State Cooperative Extension and several partner agencies created the Master Well Owner Network (MWON), a group of trained volunteers who are dedicated to promoting the proper construction, testing, and maintenance of private water wells, springs and cisterns throughout Pennsylvania. Since its inception, hundreds of MWON volunteers have attended Saturday training workshops to learn about proper water supply management practices. Starting on February 6, 2012, this same training will be available entirely online. Prospective volunteers need to submit an application and be accepted into the program. Applications will be limited and will only be accepted through January 31, 2012. Once accepted, each volunteer will receive seven weekly emails with links to short reading assignments and video presentations. Participants in online training will largely be able to determine their own training schedule. One optional online meeting will be offered on March 19 to help answer volunteer questions (attendance at this optional meeting this will require a computer with high speed connection and speakers)
Volunteers who successfully complete the training course and pass a short exam will receive a free copy of the 80 page publication - A Guide to Private Water Systems in Pennsylvania, a coupon good for a 10% discount on water testing through the Penn State water testing lab, and access to various MWON educational materials. In return, MWON volunteers are asked to pass along what they have learned to other private water supply owners and submit an annual report of their educational accomplishments.
To learn more visit the MWON online course website
