November 2008

U.S. Water News Online

SAN FRANCISCO — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is ordering 11 public water systems in California to reduce levels of arsenic in their drinking water systems.

The EPA is requiring the water systems to develop and meet a schedule to comply with the federal government's arsenic standard.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral found in groundwater that's known to increase the risk of cancer as well as heart disease, diabetes and neurological damage.

EPA officials say the water systems will face penalties of up to $32,500 per day if they fail to take steps to reduce arsenic levels.

The EPA order affects local drinking water systems located in Fresno, Kern, Kings, Nevada and Sonoma counties.