Lead In Water Leads To More Tests In Ada

Adrianna Iwasinski, News 9

ADA, Oklahoma -- For the first time since the city of Ada began testing its water supply, high levels of lead have been found.

Ada started testing its water 19 years ago, but after the latest test the Department of Environmental Quality issued a notice of exceedance to the city after finding lead in certain test samples.

"This is not a violation," said Mark Bratcher, Ada's public information officer. "It is only a notice. We do testing on a regular basis and believe the lead may be coming from some of the older homes that likely have lead pipes used in their plumbing."

Bratcher said the city is sending letters to all Ada residents as well as making phone calls and putting information on the city's website about the situation.

Learn more about what Ada is doing concerning the lead levels  in the city's water

"We want to make sure everyone who drinks the water from our water supply feels safe doing so. That's our goal," Bratcher said.

The city will be doubling up its testing sites and the number of times it tests the water supply. Those who live and work in homes and buildings built before 1988 and may have lead pipes are advised to use the cold water tap, and run the water a few minutes before consuming it.

"The water is safe to drink," said Bratcher. "In fact, we have some of the best tasting water in the state."

According to the city of Ada and the DEQ, the level of lead found in the water was  minimal. The amount was about the size of a dime in relation to 75,000 2-liter water bottles. But the city still wants to  know where the lead is coming from and keep it from affecting the water supply.