Unsafe Water in Parts of Logan and Kingfisher Counties

 A water warning after Logan County's Rural water District Number Two has above normal nitrate in its drinking water. Turns out. this has been an ongoing issue for the area.

The maximum nitrate contaminant level is 10 milligrams-per-liter (or 10.0 mg/L). But the current level in Logan County District Two tested at 10.5 mg/L. Health officials say that could pose a serious health threat to some people.

"Most people come here and stay here," said Jeanne Martin.

Jeanne Martin has lived in her home in Cedar Valley for 35 years.

"We love this community," said Jeanne.

But there's one thing Jeanne has grown to hate.

"We don't ever drink the water," said Jeanne.

A "drinking water warning" was just issued for Logan County's Water District Number Two because the water's nitrate level tested above the maximum contaminant level.

"I'm very concerned," said Jeanne.

Jeanne says the district she lives in, which includes Southwest Logan County and Southeast Kingfisher County has faced the same nitrate contamination issue for years.

"I really don't know why it hasn't been fixed if it's such a danger," said Jeanne.

"Why they have gone up recently, no one knows," said Diane Frick. 

Diane Frick, the Chairman of district two's water board says the nitrate problem was recently fixed, until it surfaced again.

"Someone that doesn't have any medical problems, health problems whatsoever, it doesn't hurt you," said Frick.

But according to the Department of Environmental Quality, nitrate in drinking water that's above the maximum contaminant level could pose a serious health concern for pregnant women and infants less than six months old.

Now Jeanne only gives her grand kids bottled water.

"Cause we've had a lot of illness around our area, cancer," said Jeanne. "It's concerning to know if that might be part of it or it just isn't good."

The issue is now in the hands of the water board. It's an issue residents hope will be resolved.

"I just hope they can get it fixed because we deserve clean water," said Jeanne.

If you live in the affected areas, remember the DEQ says the water is only unsafe for pregnant women and infants under six months old. The DEQ says DO NOT boil the water because that will make the nitrate level more concentrated.

The water board says it plans to discuss a plan of action at a meeting next week. Unsafe Water in Parts of Logan and Kingfisher Counties

Posted: Tuesday, February 19 2013, 09:38 PM CST