The City of Salem released the following statement concerning the extension of the drinking water advisory:
We understand that Salem residents and water customers are concerned about the City’s drinking water, and we will continue to provide updated information on the City’s website and social media accounts. Test results received from water samples taken on Friday, June 8 indicate that despite an active algal bloom in the City’s water source, cyanotoxins present in the water distribution system are below EPA Health Advisory guidelines and the water is safe to drink. Results of sampling from Saturday, June 9 will be available Tuesday, June 12.
Even though the latest test results received show that the water is safe to drink for everybody, on Sunday, June 10, the City chose to extend the drinking water advisory. City Manager Steve Powers said, “…We’ve decided to be proactive and keep the drinking water advisory in place – regardless of the results of our sampling – for the next two weeks, while we continue to test and refine new treatment methods. By keeping the drinking water advisory in place, we hope to reduce confusion and give our residents and our water customers the opportunity to take the precautions they feel necessary for their families and their customers.”
The City of Salem continues to partner with other water utilities, county and State of Oregon public health/emergency response agencies, and private entities to provide drinking water to those in need. Drinking water filling stations (residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers) are available at the following locations:
- AMF Firebird Lanes, 4303 Center St. NE, Salem
- Bush's Pasture Park, Mission St. entrance, 600 Mission St. SE, Salem
- Chemeketa Community College, Brown Parking Lot, 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE, Salem
- City of Keizer Civic Center, 4969 Rickman Rd NE, Keizer
- East Salem Suburban Water District, 3805 La Branch St. SE, Salem (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Former Cheverolet Dealership, 5325 Denver St., Turner
- Geer Park, 3071 State St., Salem
- Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1865 Bill Frey Dr, Salem
- Wallace Marine Park, 200 Glen Creek Rd. NW, Salem
- Woodmansee Park, 4629 Sunnyside Rd. SE, Salem
Residents in need of assistance can contact City of Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 p.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions and those seeking health-related information can contact Marion County at 503-588-5108.
The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.