Oregon site that EHAP is currently assessing:

Sutherlin Valley Arsenic Study

On this page:

• In the News
• Reports
• Related Websites

If you live in zip codes 97479, 97462 or 97499,you are eligible for free well-water testing.  Please call 1-877-290-6767 or e-mail ehap.info@state.or.us  to sign up or if you would like more information.

Douglas County Health Department requested that EHAP evalute the health risk of arsenic contaminated wells in the Sutherlin, Oakland, Yoncalla area. Arsenic is a naturally-occurring toxic element found in natural deposits in bedrock and soil.  Studies conducted in Douglas County in the 1960's70 and 70's showed that wells in the Sutherlin area were contaminated by naturally-occurring arsenic.

EHAP, in collaboration with the Environmental Public Health Tracking and the Department of Environmental Quality, will be testing wells in the Sutherlin, Oakland, and Yoncalla area.  The results of the testing will be used to inform well owners of the levels of arsenic in their well, whether levels pose a health risk for their families, and how to reduce exposure.

In the News

• DHS to offer free well tests in Douglas County as part of arsenic study

Reports

• EHAP plans to report on the findings of the well-water study by the end of 2008.

Related Websites

• USEPA – Arsenic in Drinking Water

• CDC - Drinking Water: Private Well Resources

• Oregon State University Well Water Program