Arsenic in Ground Water of the Willamette Basin, Oregon

Arsenic concentrations exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) current Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 50 mg/L (micrograms per liter) are widespread in ground water in the Willamette Basin. The Oregon Water Resources Department and the U.S. Geological Survey began a cooperative study in the Willamette Basin in 1996. One goal of this study is to characterize the regional distribution of naturally occurring poor-quality ground water, such as ground water with high concentrations of arsenic. Characterization of the regional distribution of arsenic concentrations in the Willamette Basin will be useful to public health officials, water-resource managers, the medical community, and those using ground water for drinking and cooking.