News Release                   For Immediate Release

April 6, 2004

Boron Levels Slightly Elevated in Drinking Water

MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD - The Public Health Unit has been advised that the boron level in some well water in the former Sydenham Township has been found to be slightly higher than the acceptable interim levels listed in the Canadian Drinking Water Standards.     

Boron is an element and can be found throughout the environment.  It is present in seawater at levels similar to those identified in above-standard wells.  Geologically, shale rock arose from ancient sea beds.  It contains higher concentrations of boron than do other types of rock formations.  The Ministry of the Environment and a private hydrogeological consultant are of the opinion that the increased boron level is due to the shale formation in which these wells are drilled.

Boron is thought to be an essential trace element needed for optimal growth and development in humans.  The mean total daily boron intake of adult Canadians is estimated to range from 1-4 mg, with food being the principal source.   Most of this boron is excreted through the kidneys within 24 hours of ingestion.  Toxic effects have been measured only after very high levels of acute ingestion such as 15-20 grams, about 4,000 times the usual human intake.  Children, the elderly and individuals with kidney failure are most susceptible to the acute toxic effects of boron.

About 90% of boron can be removed from water with an ion exchange water softener and completely removed with a reverse osmosis treatment system.

It is useful for private well owners located in areas of shale formation to know the boron levels in their well water.  Having this knowledge is especially important if young children, very elderly or people with kidney failure are drinking untreated water.  The Public Health Unit advises private well owners in the area bounded by Highway 26, St. Vincent - Sydenham Townline and Georgian Bay to have their raw well water tested for boron.   Boron testing is not a mandated public health service, however, the Public Health Unit has arranged for these private well owners to be able to test their well water for a reduced fee of $15. 

The tests will be conducted in an accredited laboratory.  A package containing special water testing bottles will be delivered to well owners in the designated area within 4 to 6 weeks.   Well owners should note that the water sample must be taken from untreated well water.  It is also important to record the “911” fire number of the property where the well is located.  Test results will be sent to both the owner and the Public Health Unit. 

Public Health plans to map the test results in order to create a more complete picture of the groundwater in our area and to enhance its Safe Water program.  Thank you for your help in this study.

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For more information:

Dr. Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456