May 26, 2004
Much of the southern Willamette Valley has been declared a "groundwater management area" by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, setting in motion a process for enlisting public help to deal with extensive nitrate contamination.
The declaration signed earlier this month by DEQ Director Stephanie Hallock created the Southern Willamette Valley Groundwater Management Area.
Creation of the management area requires the DEQ and other state agencies to work together to develop a plan for addressing the nitrate problem.
The high nitrate levels are believed to be the result of dense groupings of septic tanks, plus use of lawn and crop fertilizers and depositing of animal waste.
Nitrate contamination of water sources is believed to be a contributing factor in blue baby syndrome, a condition in which nitrates interfere with the oxygen-carrying capacity of infants' blood.
After a 60-day period for public consideration, the first step in the state's action plan for addressing the nitrate problem is expected to be the creation of a citizens' committee to work with state agencies to develop a strategy, and to review and comment on all options.
Those interested in participating on that committee or on any of the technical subcommittees that are expected to be formed can contact Audrey Eldridge (eldridge.audrey@ deq.state.or.us; 541-776-6010, Ext. 223), Gail Glick Andrews (gail.glick.andrews@orst.edu; 541-737-6294) or Denise Kalakay (dkalakay@Lane.COG.OR.US; 682-7415).
Copyright 2004 The Register-Guard