Update on Drinking Water Quality in the City of Lebanon

For Immediate Release:
November 22, 2024

Update on Drinking Water Quality in the City of Lebanon

The City of Lebanon would like to address concerns about the USACE's drawdown operation and reassure residents that the drinking water remains safe. The City will notify residents immediately if drinking water quality standards are not being met. Water quality updates can be found on the City's website at http://www.lebanonoregon.gov.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently implementing a drawdown operation at several Willamette Valley reservoirs, including Green Peter and Lookout Point, following an interim injunction issued by the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. This operation is part of an effort to improve fish passage in the area, and it is affecting water quality downstream of the reservoirs.

The drawdown involves lowering water levels in the reservoirs, which has led to increased turbidity (cloudiness) in the water. This change, which can be exacerbated by rain or storm events, may challenge local water systems' ability to treat the water effectively. However, despite these changes, the water remains safe to drink.

Affected Public Water Systems: The following water systems are directly impacted by the drawdown operation:

Downstream of Green Peter Reservoir:

City of Sweet Home (PWS #00851)
City of Lebanon (PWS #00473)
City of Albany (PWS #00012)

Downstream of Lookout Point Reservoir:

City of Lowell (PWS #00492)

Impact on Drinking Water

The primary concern for residents served by these water systems is the potential for changes in water color, odor, and taste. The drawdown can cause an increase in both organic and inorganic materials in the water, leading to discoloration. These changes are a result of decaying vegetation (organic matter) and naturally occurring minerals like iron and manganese (inorganic matter), which can cause the water to appear brownish or yellow.

While this discoloration may be alarming, it is not harmful to your health. The water remains safe to drink as long as it meets regulatory standards. The City of Lebanon is continuously monitoring water quality and making necessary adjustments to treatment processes to ensure safe drinking water. If at any time water quality falls below safe standards, providers will issue a public notice.

What to Expect

Color Changes: The water may appear brownish or yellow due to organic and inorganic material stirred up by the drawdown. These changes are not harmful.
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Odor and Taste Changes: The water may have a different odor or taste due to adjustments in water treatment, such as an increase in chlorine. Chlorine is used to disinfect the water, and higher dosages may be temporarily needed to address changes in water chemistry during the drawdown process.

Despite these temporary adjustments, the water is safe to consume, and local water systems are committed to maintaining high safety standards. If any water safety concerns arise, water providers will promptly notify the public.

About the Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is responsible for protecting the public's health by ensuring access to safe drinking water. OHA monitors water quality across the state and supports local water systems in maintaining compliance with health and safety standards.

OHA has provided a list of Frequently Asked Questions here

For more information, please visit www.healthoregon.org/dwa.
Phone: (503) 555-1234 Email: [email protected]

City of Lebanon, Ron Whitlatch, Interim City Manager
Phone: (541) 258-4264 Email: [email protected]

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