EPA sequential testing on St. Croix found lead and copper levels below action thresholds, Government House said

Government House said on Nov. 25, 2023, that sequential water testing conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in early November on St. Croix found lead and copper levels at all tested sites were below action levels, with many samples showing no detectable amounts.

According to the statement, the EPA conducted the testing with the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and the Department of Planning and Natural Resources in areas previously identified for concern. The government said the results were shared with the Virgin Islands on Nov. 22, 2023.

Government House said the findings supported earlier assessments by DPNR and WAPA and suggested that elevated lead and copper readings reported by the EPA on Oct. 13, 2023, were largely tied to deviations from standard testing protocols. The statement said the earlier sampling had been taken at the meter rather than at the tap.

The statement said some St. Croix areas continued to have water-quality problems involving discolored water linked to aging ductile iron pipes.

Government House also said the Bryan administration was working with federal agencies and assisting WAPA with pipe replacement efforts and corrosion-control improvements.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-albert-bryan-jr-announces-positive-results-from-epa-sequential-water-testing-on-st-croix/