Walla Walla County addresses challenges in managing Group B water systems

Walla Walla County's water systems face significant challenges, as highlighted in a recent government meeting focused on environmental health. Rick, the environmental health division manager, detailed the county's Group B water program, which oversees small water systems that serve fewer than 15 connections. Since taking on management in 2014, the county has struggled with compliance and water quality issues, particularly concerning high nitrate levels.

Currently, Walla Walla County has 140 approved systems, but only 40% are compliant with required water sampling. Many of these systems, some dating back to the 1980s, are plagued by high nitrate levels, forcing residents to rely on bottled water for safety. The lack of annual permits complicates consistent oversight, leaving the health department with limited enforcement options.

Rick emphasized the need for innovative treatment technologies to address these issues, particularly as new contaminants like PFAS emerge. He noted that while some small systems are adopting treatment methods, the financial burden remains a significant barrier. The conversation also touched on the importance of maintaining personal relationships with system operators, as the county's small size allows for closer collaboration.

Representative Mary Dye raised the possibility of exploring successful nitrogen removal technologies from other regions, suggesting that tailored solutions could help alleviate the burden on small water systems. The meeting underscored the urgent need for support and funding to ensure safe drinking water in rural areas, where options for connecting to larger systems are often nonexistent. As Walla Walla County navigates these challenges, the focus remains on finding sustainable solutions to protect public health and improve water quality.