January 2026 Newsletter

Sample Collection in Cold Weather

by Lee Strickland, Jr., ODW Sustainability Coordinator

Lee.Strickland@vdh.virginia.gov

As we move into the colder months and put on our big coats, one thing won't change: We still need to take water samples. In preparation for lower ambient temperatures and shorter days, here are some tips to ensure there are no delays in sample collection through the coldest days of the year. 

Key tips and reminders for winter sample collection:

• Install freeze protection on sample taps in the distribution system. Ideally this is done prior to winter, but there's still time to do it now. Get prior approval before installing freeze protection on taps not owned by the utility.
• Be safe: Check the weather, gear-up, and be aware of your surroundings. Proceed with caution as you walk and drive over ice and snow. Wear layers of clothing and always grab gloves. 
• Collect time-sensitive samples during the warmer time of the day, typically between 1pm and 4:30pm
• Use an insulated cooler when collecting multiple samples in cold weather to maintain sample temperature and prevent them from freezing. 
• Check for leaks before collecting samples. Look at the spigot and the surrounding area. A leaky tap or splashing or dripping water can contaminate your sample. 
• If a sample tap is frozen or malfunctioning, the first choice is to use an approved alternate site. Make sure you have a list on-hand before you head out collecting samples.
• If a sample tap is frozen and an alternate is not available, thaw slowly. Apply gentle heat using warm rags, heat tape, or a hairdryer. Avoid using high-heat devices or open flames.

As you discover cold-weather problems that could have been avoided, jot them down and then discuss them with your utility leadership. Develop a plan to address them so they're not a problem again next year.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." 

Benjamin Franklin

ODW Webinar: LCRI Mandatory Tap Sampling Requirements - Preparing for Service Line Inventory-Based Compliance Sampling   January 27, 2026, 10:00 - 11:00am

Changes to sample collection under the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) will begin in November 2027. Now is the time to learn, plan, and prepare so that your waterworks will be ready in time. Join us as we host TruePani, Inc for a webinar on the next step of getting ready for the LCRI.

In the webinar you will learn:

• Where you will have to collect samples. This will be based on your inventory.
• How you will collect the samples (1st and 5th liter samples)
• Sample Tiers - what they are and what they mean
• What to do when there is lead exposure?

This will be essential for community and non-transient noncommunity (NTNC) waterworks, especially schools and daycares. There will be time for questions during the presentation.

The webinar will be recorded and posted on the ODW website within two weeks of the session. Attendees are eligible to earn 1 Contact Hour.

2026 Waterworks Training

VDH Office of Drinking Water is pleased to announce the 2026 Waterworks Training Program. This series of in-person and online courses is being offered through a contract with Virginia Tech. It is designed to prepare individuals to take initial or advanced licensing exams as well as learn more about what it takes to own and operate a public waterworks.

Groundwater Small Systems Operations

February 10 - 12, 2026 Newport News, VA

This in-person short course covers the operation and maintenance of Class 5 and 6 waterworks. Topics include: water sources, safety, sample collection and analysis, operation and maintenance, regulations, basic math, and record keeping. Participants will receive 1.9 CEUs (19 contact hours) for successful completion of this course. 

Monthly Water Broadcast Series

Kicks off in February

Join us for our free monthly broadcasts featuring water industry speakers. The interactive broadcasts will cover a range of fundamental and emerging topics. Since it is delivered online, you will have the opportunity to ask questions of presenters and participants and participate in discussions.

All broadcasts are delivered online via Zoom on Wednesdays from 12:00-3:00 pm.  

Participants receive 3 contact hours for successful completion of each workshop. Registration is required to receive credit for attending broadcasts.

February 18, 2026 Broadcast: "Emerging Contaminants and PFAS in Groundwater Wells in Southwest VA"; Leigh Keometis, Associate Professor, Biological Systems Engineering, VIrginia Tech. 

Broadcast Registration: Info for Water Broadcast Series. Registration opens soon!

Visit the Water and Wastewater Training Course Webpage for a full listing of courses scheduled for 2026. Information will be updated as details are finalized for each course.

ODW is Hiring!

The Office of Drinking Water provides regulatory oversight and technical assistance to public waterworks across the state. Our team is made up of staff with broad experiences and background including biology, engineering, geology, administrative support, water operations, and laboratory experience. Check out our open positions at:

www.jobs.virginia.gov

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