Many homes in downtown Lebanon get their water from private, domestic wells. Many of these wells are used for drinking, cooking, and other household uses.
PCE was first detected in an irrigation well near the downtown area in August 1990. Since that time, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have sampled over 120 wells for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including many domestic wells that serve as primary drinking water sources. The contaminants PCE and TCE were detected at levels in some domestic wells that is concerning to the public health division.
EHAP was asked to provide a health consultation about the results of the testing. and in January, 2009 EHAP released a health consultation report that outlined the health risks associated with drinking, breathing, and coming into contact with VOCs in the Lebanon groundwater contamination area.
Citizens in the contaminated area are encouraged to test their well water, provided free of charge, by calling DEQ, at 541-687-7349. The contamination area is roughly bounded by Mary Street to the north, D Street to the south, Hiatt Street to the east, and 10th Street to the west.
Educational Materials
Reports
Public Participation
- Fact sheets were mailed to area residents upon release of the report in January, 2009.
- DEQ and DHS co-hosted a public meeting in August, 2008.
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