Lead levels detected in Troy water sample 10x higher than EPA action level

Troy Water Quality Report Reveals High Lead Levels

TROY, N.Y. (WRGB) —

A new water quality report in Troy showed drinking water samples with lead levels ten times higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s “action level” limit.

It makes a recently awarded multi-million dollar grant to the city for lead pipe replacement even more timely.

High Lead Levels Detected

One water sample taken between July and December of last year registered a lead level of 171 parts per billion (ppb). The EPA’s action level is 15 ppb.

“It is certainly one of the highest levels that I’ve seen in quite some time. When you’re being exposed to that level of lead in drinking water that could lead to very immediate and acute health risks,” said Robert Hayes, Director of Clean Water at Environmental Advocates NY (EANY).

“This really shows Troy is detecting some of the highest levels of lead in drinking water in the state,” he added.

“That’s not to say that every property in Troy is detecting 171 ppb but it is possible that lead levels are reaching that level,” Hayes said.

In the six month period, the average out of all the samples came out to 35.4 ppb, which is still more than double the EPA’s limit.

Lead Pipe Replacement Efforts

On Monday, the mayor’s office alerted residents that elevated lead levels were detected in drinking water of homes and buildings.

The lead comes from old service pipes that connect individual homes and buildings to the city’s main water line.

High levels of lead in your body can cause serious health problems, especially in pregnant women and children six years old and young.

Last year, the prior administration came under fire after the public learned that more than a $500,000 grant to replace lead pipes sat untouched since 2018.

Since then, the city says it has been aggressive in its approach to replace these old water lines.

“The city has said about 50-percent of water customers have submitted information about what their pipes are made out of, which is fantastic. It’s one of the highest totals in the state right now,” said Hayes.

With the city’s lead pipe inventory nearly 50-percent complete, it’s why city officials believe the state Department of Health awarded the city an $8.9 million grant and $3.9 interest free loan for lead pipe replacement.

“That was a major reason why we scored so well,” said Sue Steele (D), President of Troy City Council. “We have done a huge amount of work in identifying, which residents do indeed have lead pipes.”

The city was awarded the funds last week.

Importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

“We are tremendously excited we scored the top municipality in the state and kudos to our Department of Public Utilities, the administration, the workers who have done the hard work in beginning our inventory of lead pipes throughout the city,” Steele said.

Taking inventory of all lead pipes in the ground is something the EPA is requiring all municipalities to do. Reports must be submitted to the EPA by October 2024.

“This is really a document that will show where lead pipes are located in the water utility system or where there are unknown pipes in that system,” said Hayes.

Although many of the city’s lead pipes are privately owned, the city has pledged to cover the full cost of the replacement– the only city in the Capital Region to do so.

Steps to Reduce Exposure to Lead

Steps residents can take to reduce exposure to lead in their drinking water include:

• Run your water to flush out lead
• Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula
• Do not boil water to remove lead
• Replace your plumbing if pipes contain lead

Troy residents who live in a home built before 1975 and haven’t had their home’s water service lines inspected should contact the city’s Department of Public Utilities by calling (518) 237-0343.

City officials say a technician will be sent to your home to inspect your pipes free of charge.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
– Target 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
– Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
– Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. The indicators are:
– Lead levels in drinking water samples: This indicator can measure progress towards achieving universal access to safe and affordable drinking water (Target 6.1).
– Health risks associated with exposure to lead in drinking water: This indicator can measure progress towards reducing deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and water pollution (Target 3.9).
– Lead pipe replacement progress: This indicator can measure progress towards reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities and improving waste management (Target 11.6).

By monitoring these indicators, it will be possible to track the progress made in addressing the issues highlighted in the article and achieving the identified targets.

4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: cbs6albany.com

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