Elevated lead levels found in Webster County wells

WEBSTER COUNTY, Mo. — Elevated levels of lead in private water wells in Southeastern Webster County are causing concern.

Scott Allen, the Webster County Health Unit Administrator said the heavy metal could be getting into the water from abandoned lead mines in the area.

“So, what we’re trying to do now is figure out if the lead in the water is just naturally occurring, if maybe the lead in the water is the result of the mining that went on at the ground level previously,” Allen said.

Some health risks that can be from lead include memory loss, speech difficulties, tiredness, high blood pressure, cardiac problems, poor appetite, and even reproductive problems. In children, lead can lower IQ, increase behavior problems, present learning disabilities, hearing loss, as well as bone and muscle breakdown.

During early testing, Allen said that one home came back with levels well above what is considered acceptable.

“We had one residence where the homeowner wanted their water tested and that result came back at 0.780 milligrams of lead per liter, which is about 65 times the maximum of acceptable concentrations,” Allen said.

While water in incorporated cities such as Marshfield and Seymour is safe to drink, Allen said those using well water should use caution.

“For folks who are getting their water out of a well, though, it’s important to test it from time to time. So again, all you have to do is stop by our office, pick up that test kit, and then those results get back to you within about a week,” said Allen.

For now, the health unit is recommending people in the area use different methods to filter their water such as an electric pump or something as simple as a Britta water filter.

The Department of Natural Resources said they plan to collect samples between June 10th and 14 ^th from residences with completed forms.

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