Uranium, arsenic found in drinking water

Expanded testing on P.E.I. drinking water sources has found unacceptable levels of uranium, arsenic and selenium in a small percentage of wells.

The Environment Department added the three new elements to its general chemistry test in early July. It dropped three others that were rarely detected.

George Somers, manager of the drinking water section, said the elements are naturally occurring.

Somers said it isn't a surprise to find them in drinking water tests.

He added he's more concerned when he sees high bacteria levels in water.

Close to 550 privateand public wells have had the new testing. Somers said there were no hot spot areas. Uranium above acceptable levels was found in 2.5 per cent of wells. Arsenic was detected exceeding the guideline in 1.8 per cent of wells.

Arsenic in levels over the guideline can increaserisk of internal cancers over alifetime very slightly while levels of uranium above guideline can similarly increase risk of damage to the kidneys,said Somers.

There are water treatment systems available to treat drinking water for uranium and arsenic. Somers suggested people do a general chemistry test when they first dig a well, and then every three to five years. The test costs $85 plus taxes.