Two backup water wells for Grand Forks have higher levels of arsenic.
The results are contained in an annual water quality report council discussed this (Monday) morning.
Public Works Manager Alex Adams says the wells in Dick Bartlett Park haven’t run in a while.
“So, wells 4 and 5. It’s mainly well 4. Well 5 is compliant, little bit lower levels. So, typically those wells don’t run unless wells 3, 3A and 2 are all running and not keeping up. So, they (wells 4 and 5) haven’t been running in the last two years,” Adams said.
Adams explained the wells can be flushed or the raw water blended to bring those levels down and the entire system is meeting all regulations.
CAO Duncan Redfearn added Interior Health toured the operation three weeks ago and had “no concerns” as the city is following “rigid and robust standards.”
Redfearn said this is “source water” and not the “end product” coming out of the taps in Grand Forks homes and businesses.
Acting Mayor Christine Thompson asked Adams about the public’s safety.
“So, there’s really no cause for real concern?” Thompson said. “Not in my opinion, no,” Adams interjected before Thompson finished her thought.
Health Canada says long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water can cause a number of health problems including cancer.
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