The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently disclosed the results of a water filter study carried out in Benton Harbor, Mich., which revealed that filters may successfully lower lead levels in drinking water if used properly, according to an EPA press release.
EPA scientists conducted the water filter study in November and December 2021, analyzing unfiltered and filtered water samples from approximately 200 residences.
“No family should ever have to worry about the quality of water coming from their tap and the Benton Harbor community is no exception,” EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore said in a release. “The information collected in Benton Harbor expands our existing knowledge that filters are effective at removing lead, affirming our confidence in their use nationwide.
In addition, the EPA determined that residents need additional information to properly set up and maintain filters and it intends to work with local officials to distribute advice on filter safety and performance.
"However, using a water filter addresses the symptom and not the cause of the problem, which is why EPA is committed to President Biden’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes, the primary source of lead in drinking water across the country,” Shore said.
The EPA and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) will keep monitoring the drinking water system in an effort to mitigate any new issues while identifying further methods to enhance its operations.
However, the State of Michigan advises that Benton Harbor residents keep using bottled water for cooking, drinking, brushing their teeth and preparing powdered baby formula.
The state has committed to replacing all lead service lines in Benton Harbor over the next 16 months, and residents will continue to receive free bottled water until the lines are replaced.
