Metals
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What Are Heavy Metals?
Heavy metals refer to heavy, dense, metallic elements. Low concentrations of heavy metals are naturally occurring in fresh water systems. Levels vary among systems based on soil characteristics, water properties (i.e. acidity), and amounts of organic matter. Metals can enter water through weathering of soils and rocks, volcanic eruptions, or other natural occurring events. Additional amounts of metals found in freshwater may be from human-related sources. Some activities causing metals to be introduced into the environment are landfills and dump sites, mining operations, and runoff from roads. Many vehicle parts, such as brakes and clutches, have metals that can accumulate on roadways and later be carried into waterbodies by stormwater runoff.
The most common metal pollutants found in freshwater are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, lead and mercury. Aquatic life and terrestrial life are equally affected by this pollution. High concentrations of metals can kill fish and aquatic plant life, as well as create human health concerns. For example, in Lake Whatcom there is a fish advisory for smallmouth bass and yellow perch due to mercury found in fish tissues.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates certain heavy metals in drinking water through Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLG) and Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL). A MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. A MCL is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology. Although there have been concerns about concentrations of metals in Lake Whatcom, water supplied from the City of Bellingham and the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District are meet all standards for heavy metals. Consumer Confidence Reports
How Can You Prevent Metals From Entering Streams And The Lake?
- Automobiles should be maintained on a regular basis. If you find a leak, have it repaired.
- Toxic household items should be properly disposed of to avoid metals leaching into groundwater and surface waters. To learn how to dispose of toxic items please contact the Whatcom County Environmental Health Division at (360) 676-6724.
