Well Water Program

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in soils and groundwater. Arsenic concentrations vary in accordance with geographic location. When arsenic levels are found to be too high at a specific location, it may be necessary to treat drinking water to remove it.

Overview of Arsenic in Drinking Water

• Arsenic In Your Drinking Water; OSU Extension Service
• Arsenic Removal Fact Sheet (pdf); Oregon Health Authority
• Oregon Certified Drinking Water Laboratories; Oregon Department of Human Services (click on interactive map)

Where Arsenic Occurs in Oregon

• Arsenic in Groundwater of the Willamette Basin, OR; U.S. Geological Survey, 1999 (full PDF version)
• Arsenic in Groundwater in the United States; USGS

For More Arsenic Information

• Arsenic FAQ; Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (full PDF version)

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Wondering if your water is safe for livestock?

Several states have publications that may be of help.

• Livestock Water Quality (University of Missouri)
• Livestock and Water (Ohio State University)
• When is Water Good Enough for Livestock? (Montana State University)

What about arsenic in irrigation water?

Plants vary in their susceptibility to arsenic. Recommended limits for reclaimed irrigation water are 0.5 mg/l for long-term use and 2.0 mg/l for short-term use.

Is arsenic from treated lumber a concern?

• Environmental Soil Issues: Garden Use of Treated Lumber (Penn State Extension)