WAPA said EPA found elevated lead and copper in 35 of 66 St. Croix water samples

Official document: https://www.viwapa.vi/docs/default-source/2023-pr/press-release-(10.14.23)-authority-collaborates-for-water-quality-enhancements-with-additional-technical-assistance.pdf?sfvrsn=28979b46_3

Archive page: https://www.viwapa.vi/news-information/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/10/14/authority-collaborates-for-water-quality-enhancements-with-additional-technical-assistance

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority said on October 14, 2023, that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found elevated levels of lead and copper in 35 of 66 water samples collected during extended sampling on St. Croix.

WAPA said an initial review of the EPA test results took place on October 13, 2023, with the EPA, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources and the University of the Virgin Islands.

According to the authority, follow-up sampling after water lines were flushed for three to five minutes showed little to no lead or copper in the vast majority of samples. WAPA said that suggested the problem in those areas could be related to stagnant water, though it said further investigation was underway.

The authority said the EPA would provide technical assistance for a broader resampling effort. WAPA said it had begun secondary sampling and additional flushing across the distribution system, with a focus on areas where elevated levels were found.

WAPA advised residents not to cook with or drink tap water, to use another drinking-water source such as bottled water, and to consider certified lead-removal filters after flushing taps. The authority also urged customers to identify and replace plumbing fixtures that may contain lead and to clean faucet aerators regularly.

The release also said work continued under St. Croix water rehabilitation projects, including Clifton Hill, Campo Rico and Hannah's Rest.