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Traces of lead found in drinking water in Greenville, New Hampshire

The article from WMUR, published on June 20, 2025, discusses a significant public health concern in Greenville, New Hampshire, where elevated levels of lead have been detected in the town's drinking water. This issue has raised alarms among residents and local authorities, prompting immediate action to address the contamination and ensure the safety of the community.

Greenville, a small town with a population of approximately 2,000 people, relies on a municipal water system that serves both residential and commercial areas. The recent discovery of lead in the water supply has led to widespread concern, as lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, particularly in children and pregnant women. The article details the steps being taken to mitigate the issue and the potential long-term solutions being considered.

The contamination was first detected during routine water quality testing conducted by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). The tests revealed lead levels exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). In some areas of Greenville, lead concentrations were found to be as high as 25 ppb, prompting immediate action from local authorities.

Upon receiving the test results, the Greenville Water Department issued a public advisory, urging residents to avoid using tap water for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula. Bottled water was distributed to affected households, and the town set up several water distribution points to ensure that residents had access to safe drinking water. The article highlights the community's response, with many residents expressing relief at the swift action taken by local officials.

The source of the lead contamination is believed to be the town's aging water infrastructure, particularly the service lines and plumbing fixtures in older homes. Many of these pipes and fixtures contain lead, which can leach into the water supply over time. The article explains that lead service lines were commonly used in the early 20th century, and Greenville, like many other towns across the country, has yet to fully replace these outdated systems.

To address the immediate issue, the Greenville Water Department has begun a comprehensive flushing program to remove lead particles from the water system. This involves opening fire hydrants and other outlets to increase water flow and dislodge any lead deposits. The article notes that while this is a temporary measure, it is crucial for reducing lead levels in the short term.

In addition to the flushing program, the town is conducting a thorough inventory of its water infrastructure to identify and prioritize the replacement of lead service lines. This process is expected to take several months, as it involves inspecting thousands of service connections and coordinating with property owners. The article emphasizes the importance of this step, as it will help prevent future contamination and ensure the long-term safety of the water supply.

The article also discusses the potential health impacts of lead exposure, particularly on vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Lead can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems in children, while in adults, it can lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive issues. The article cites research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which states that no level of lead exposure is considered safe.

To address these health concerns, the Greenville Health Department has set up a lead testing clinic for residents, particularly those with young children. The clinic offers free blood lead level testing and provides resources and guidance on how to minimize exposure. The article highlights the importance of early detection and intervention, as prompt treatment can help mitigate the effects of lead poisoning.

The article also touches on the financial implications of addressing the lead contamination. The cost of replacing lead service lines and upgrading the water infrastructure is expected to be significant, potentially running into millions of dollars. The town is exploring various funding options, including federal and state grants, loans, and partnerships with private organizations. The article notes that while the financial burden is substantial, the health and safety of the community must be the top priority.

In response to the crisis, local officials have been working closely with state and federal agencies to develop a comprehensive plan to address the lead contamination. The NHDES is providing technical assistance and guidance, while the EPA is offering support through its Lead and Copper Rule, which sets standards for lead in drinking water. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders to effectively tackle the issue.

The article also features interviews with residents, who express a range of emotions, from concern and frustration to gratitude for the efforts being made to address the problem. One resident, a mother of two young children, shares her experience of learning about the contamination and the steps she has taken to protect her family. Another resident, a long-time homeowner, discusses the challenges of dealing with aging infrastructure and the need for more proactive measures to prevent such issues in the future.

The article concludes by highlighting the broader implications of the lead contamination in Greenville. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many communities across the country in maintaining safe and reliable water systems. The article calls for increased investment in water infrastructure, stricter regulations on lead in plumbing materials, and greater public awareness of the risks associated with lead exposure.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the lead contamination issue in Greenville, New Hampshire, detailing the immediate actions taken, the long-term solutions being considered, and the potential health and financial implications. It underscores the importance of swift and coordinated efforts to address public health crises and the need for ongoing vigilance to ensure the safety of our water supply.

Read the Full WMUR Article at:
[ https://www.wmur.com/article/lead-greenville-nh-drinking-water-06202025/65119399 ]