The lead crisis in Flint Michigan has made national news, and triggered public concern about drinking water quality. Much of the issue comes from lead leaching from lead services when coming into contact with drinking water that is corrosive. MWRA Executive Director Fred Laskey recently briefed Advisory Board members on why a situation like Flint is unlikely at MWRA. Compare below the MWRA's situation to that of Flint:
Flint: Recently changed its water source from Detroit to its backup supply (the Flint River).
MWRA: Uses well-protected, stable sources (Wachusett and Quabbin reservoirs)
Flint: Began using backup treatment plant with new source. Did not install corrosion control treatment when switching water supplies.
MWRA: Reviews how any changes to water treatment might affect lead corrosion including bench and pilot scale testing. MWRA installed corrosion control treatment in 1996, makes careful adjustments, and continuously monitors the water's corrosiveness.
Taste and Odor Complaints
|
Flint: Initial reports of poor water quality (taste and odor) were ignored. Data suggesting lead levels in water were elevated were initially dismissed by local and state officials.
MWRA: Tracks customer complaints on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Every complaint is taken very seriously and is investigated.
Flint: Water quality data was not made public. Citizens had to gather their own data.
MWRA: Water quality data is tracked and published on website. Maintains a water quality hot-line with a public health professional to respond to inquiries.
Flint: Almost half the homes in Flint have lead services.
MWRA: MWRA communities report only about 5% of connections have lead. MWRA's zero-interest loan program can be used for communities to fund replacement of lead services on both public and private property.
It is to the MWRA's credit that the agency has had corrosion control treatment for several years, continually monitor water quality, proactively test any proposed changes to treatment, and respond immediately to any taste and odor concerns. The Advisory Board thanks the Authority for its diligence in providing the best tasting drinking water in the country to its ratepayers every day. |