News Release                   For Immediate Release

May 19, 2004

Boron Testing for Municipality of Meaford Well Owners

MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD - The Public Health Unit reminds private well owners in the area bounded by Highway 26, St. Vincent – Sydenham Townline and Georgian Bay they are advised to have their raw water tested for boron. 

As reported earlier, test results indicated that boron levels in some well water in the former Sydenham Township was slightly higher than the acceptable interim levels listed in the Canadian Drinking Water Standards.  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 valuable if young children, very elderly or people with kidney failure are drinking untreated water. 

Boron testing is not a mandated public health service, however, it is important for well owners to have their water tested. The Public Health Unit has arranged for private well owners to test their well water for a reduced fee of $15.  Packages have either been dropped off to resident’s mailboxes or are available for pickup in Leith at Rainbow’s Edge.

Public Health would appreciate your cooperation in submitting samples.  Test results from these samples will be mapped, in order to create a more complete picture of the groundwater in our area and to enhance the water safety program.  Samples must be dropped off at the Grey Bruce Health Unit, 920 First Avenue West in Owen Sound, by 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 31, 2004 to be included in this study.  Your participation in this study is strictly voluntary.

For more information please call 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information:

Lou D’Alessandro, Manager of Health Protection

Grey Bruce Health Unit

376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 223