Important information regarding lead and copper testing

The City conducts routine lead and copper testing of our drinking water in compliance with the EPA’s “Lead and Copper Rule” (LCR). Every three years, we test water from 10 high-risk homes, identified based on plumbing age and materials, to monitor for lead and copper levels.

In our latest testing, lead levels exceeded the EPA’s “action level,” meaning we must take steps to reduce potential lead exposure.

The City’s surface water, sourced from Dexter Reservoir, does not contain detectable levels of lead. Instead, the primary source of lead exposure in drinking water comes from the plumbing within homes and businesses. Lead can leach into water from lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures, especially in older buildings.

In addition to sharing this notice, the City will increase monitoring of lead and copper and work with the Oregon Health Authority to determine if corrosion control measures should be installed at the water treatment plant.

As an added step, the City recently completed an inventory of our service lines—the pipes connecting homes to the water main. This inventory did not detect any lead service lines. See the back of this sheet for more detail.

We encourage residents, especially those with older plumbing, to check their own plumbing and fixtures, as these can contribute to lead levels in household water. If you are unsure about your plumbing materials, consider consulting a licensed plumber for an assessment and for additional guidance on how to protect your household. Please refer to the enclosed pamphlet, “Lead in Drinking Water,” for easy steps to further protect your home.

For more in formation see attachments on this page.