The Governor's Regulatory Review Council has approved new aquifer water quality standards.
The standards are Arizona’s legal safety limits for pollutants in groundwater. The changes include new or revised caps on seven contaminants like arsenic and uranium, which can harm human health at high concentrations.
If contamination exceeds those limits, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) can require corrective actions, like treatment, containment or cleanup.
According to ADEQ, more than 80% of Arizona residents rely on groundwater for drinking water, especially those in rural communities and private well households.
“This is a win for public health and Arizona communities that depend on groundwater for drinking water,” said Trevor Baggiore, ADEQ Water Quality Division director. “We are proud to deliver on our commitment to modernize these standards to reflect the latest science and federal regulations.”
They will take effect on Aug. 4.
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On Sept. 8, KJZZ water reporter Alex Hager presented your questions and concerns to a panel of experts.
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