ABSTRACT

1
15. Arsenic Occurrence and Health Risks in
Aquifer Systems of Western Oregon
Von Blanchard ES473 Environmental Geology Earth
and Physical Sciences Dept. Western Oregon
University
ABSTRACT Arsenic concentrations in groundwater
of western Oregon commonly exceeds the maximum
concentration limits (MCL) specified by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. Arsenic varies
spatially according to composition of bedrock
aquifer materials and temporally with seasonal
changes in climate-driven recharge. Select
aquifer systems in Lane and Linn Counties, the
Tualatin basin, and the Sutherlin area are
associated with anomalous arsenic concentrations
in groundwater. Arsenic toxicity and long term
health effects pose a risk to rural water users
and well owners in these areas. This paper
examines the geochemical conditions associated
with arsenic distribution in western Oregon and
considers mitigation strategies with respect to
public health practice.