New water sample results in Salem show a toxin produced by algae blooms in the city's water distribution system are below concerning levels, though a drinking water advisory will remain in place until at least Friday.
The city of Salem announced Thursday that new data shows low levels of cyanotoxins that pose no threat to the city's vulnerable populations. It said it needs one more day of clear results before it can lift the advisory. The samples were taken June 5.
Meanwhile, children under six, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are advised not to drink the city's tap water. The National Guard is distributing water throughout the city.
Mayor Chuck Bennett, who is on vacation for the next two weeks while Councilor President Steve McCoid serves as acting mayor, said he's been monitoring the situation closely and that he is in regular contact with city officials.
Bennett said the city has identified a new toxin known as anatoxin-a in its system, though not at levels that would warrant an advisory. Anatoxin-a is produced by a variety of cyanobacteria.
The city is also exploring alternative testing and treatment methods. Bennett said Public Works staff is ordering equipment from New York that will allow the city to screen water using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method – or ELISA.
"The equipment will allow us to detect toxins and take actions such as shutting down the intake at Geren Island much more quickly," Bennett said.
"The screening will allow earlier notification to our residents and water customers."
Bennett said the purchase of the equipment also includes training for the lab technicians operating at the Willow Lake Water Treatment Plant.
"The testing should be online in the next several days," Bennett said.
This story will be updated.
Copyright 2018 Oregon Public Broadcasting