MWON Videos

How does a Lagoon Treat Wastewater?

Lagoons are a common option for on-site wastewater treatment in rural areas. But do you know how they work? This video, produced in collaboration with the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, shows how lagoons function. Visit https://swefc.unm.edu/home/ for more information.

Animation by Clayton Rimbert

How a Septic System Works

The Mississippi Well Owner Network, a program of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, offers a variety of publications, workshops, and water sampling programs for the state’s rural residents. Most well owners also have on-site wastewater systems, which require maintenance. To learn more about septic systems, visit https://www.epa.gov/septic.

How to Take a Well Water Sample

If you utilize private well water as the source of your household drinking water, then you need to get it screened for bacterial contamination at least once a year. Today, we’re going to show you how to take a water sample for this screening. First, water sample bottles are available from your local Mississippi State University Extension office. They are sterile, sealed, and contain a small amount of sodium thiosulfate to dechlorinate the sample for a more accurate screening result. Choose the faucet that is closest to the well head. If a water hose is attached, remove it before taking the sample and try to avoid any dirty areas. Use a disinfecting wipe or alcohol type towelette or a paper towel wetted with a light bleach solution to kill any bacteria that may be present on the faucet. Allow the solution to dry before collecting the sample. Turn on the water full-force, and let it run for at least two minutes. After that time has passed, reduce the water flow to a small stream. Grab your bottle, unwrap the protective seal. Do not touch the inside of the bottle. Fill the water sample just above the hundred mL line, making sure you do not over-flow the bottle, which might rinse out the powder in the bottle. Screw the cap back on the bottle, and get it to the Mississippi Well Owner Network workshop or the lab as soon as possible, and definitely within 24 hours of collecting the sample.