The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is coordinating with various agencies and public schools to conduct a proactive, statewide screening program for the presence of lead in school drinking water. The program identifies whether school drinking water contains lead levels of concern for children’s health.
In early February, seven water samples were collected from various taps and faucets at the Alpine Elementary School. The sample results were just received. Six of the samples were below the screening level. One sample exceeded the screening level. It was collected at a tap in the school’s gym restroom. The result was 23 ppb. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality’s (ADEQ) Drinking Water Section is in communication with the school about actions to take in response to the result.
Apache County Supervisor Doyel Shamley (District 3) praised Apache County ADEQ liaison, Byron James’ “professional in his manner. “He immediately called our offices and other key Apache County Health Department Staff, to inform them of the test results verbally, along with the immediate mitigation measures being taken by ADEQ in conjunction with the school faculty, parents and community. This is the kind of relationship that Apache County has come to appreciate of Mr James.”