EHAP has completed a health consultation that reports on the results of over 100 well water tests in Douglas County. After finding high levels of naturally occurring arsenic in some privately-owned Sutherlin-area wells, state public health officials are strongly urging area residents who have not tested their wells to do so. Of particular concern is the Nonpareil and Hinkle Creek areas east of Sutherlin, where a small group of wells showed arsenic levels higher than 200 ppb.

The safe drinking water standard is 10 ppb. Anything above that level should not be used for drinking or cooking. Many affected well-owners are already aware of the potential problem, and are currently using an alternative water supply for drinking and cooking. The public drinking water systems serving these communities contain no detectable levels of arsenic.