Portland Ordered to Reduce Lead Levels in Drinking Water

The Portland Water Bureau has been ordered to take immediate action to reduce the level of lead in drinking water. The Oregon Health Authority took the action after new tests came back showing the level was above federal standards.

It was the second time in three years that the city has exceeded levels the Environmental Proteciton Agency considers safe.

The state is demanding that the city speed up the timelines for improving lead levels in the water and go beyond steps already being taken to improve corrosion control in the city's water system.

The accelerated timeline calls for immediate steps, including increased corrosion control using current facilities, and aggressively implementing changes in the Lead Hazard Reduction Program to further protect vulnerable populations., according to the state.

The health authority says that they recognize that Portland's current strategy has had an impact by reducing lead exposure and raising awareness of lead hazards, despite facing challenging infrastructure issues. OHA will continue to work with Portland to evaluate short- and long-term plans for accelerating corrosion control and reducing lead levels at the tap. OHA appreciates the PWB's prompt action and looks forward to continued improvement of Portland's drinking water.

The city has until December 2nd to submit a new plan.

Lead in the water is a problem that engulfed the Portland Public Schools in controversy earlier this year, leading to the resignation of Superintendent Carole Smith.

Photo Oregon Health Authority.