California’s drought could lead to contaminated groundwater

Feb. 20, 2014

SMARTSVILLE, Calif. — In rural areas that rely on well water, contaminants could become concentrated due to lack of rainfall.

SMARTSVILLE, Calif. — Experts in California have warned that the state's drought conditions could lead to contaminated groundwater, according to an article by CBS Sacramento.

Ten water systems in rural areas where people get water from wells have been identified by the California Department of Public Health as being at risk of running out of drinking water in 60 days because of drought, the article reported.

The drought has caused some contaminants already present in the groundwater to become concentrated, leading to contaminated wells, noted the article.

According to the article, with a normal level of rainfall, the contaminant levels would remain at safe levels, but the drought has created the risk of high levels of arsenic and other chemicals.

The state and public health officials have said they will truck in water when necessary to the specified communities, the article reported.

Read the full article here.

See Water Technology’s continuing coverage of the California water crisis here:

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WRD issues statement supporting California state of emergency declaration

Napa Valley vineyards could face reduced yield in 2014

PWQA donates $2,500 to Community Water Center

California organizations to host 2014 Drought Briefing

California irrigation equipment sales spike due to drought

Californians focus on desal to help ease drought issues

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