Test results received this morning from water samples taken on Saturday, June 9, indicate the presence of cyanotoxins in the water distribution system is below EPA advisory levels for vulnerable populations. The most recent data will be available on the City's website.
Salem's water continues to be safe for the vast majority of our community. However, as a precautionary measure, the City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory for at least two more weeks to ensure safe drinking water for our residents and water customers.
Staff will continue assessing water samples through the weekend and continue to provide results to the public. The present Drinking Water Advisory for vulnerable populations was issued on Wednesday, June 6, and continues to apply to the following:
- Children under the age of six
- People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions
- People receiving dialysis treatment, or other sensitive populations
- Pregnant women or nursing mothers
- The elderly and other sensitive populations (as a precautionary measure)
- Pets
To ensure that safe drinking water is available to those in need, the City of Salem will continue to partner with other water utilities, county and State of Oregon public health/emergency response agencies, and private entities to provide drinking water to those in need. Drinking water filling stations (residents need to bring their own clean and sanitary containers) have been established at the following locations and are operating around the clock:
- AMF Firebird Lanes, 4303 Center St. NE, Salem
- Bush's Pasture Park, Mission St. entrance, 600 Mission St. SE, Salem
- Chemeketa Community College, Brown Parking Lot, 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE, Salem
- City of Keizer Civic Center, 4969 Rickman Rd NE, Keizer
- East Salem Suburban Water District, 3805 La Branch St. SE, Salem (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Former Cheverolet Dealership, 5325 Denver St., Turner (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Geer Park, 3071 State St., Salem
- Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1865 Bill Frey Dr, Salem
- Wallace Marine Park, 200 Glen Creek Rd. NW, Salem
- Woodmansee Park, 4629 Sunnyside Rd. SE, Salem
- Woodburn Memorial Transit Center, 2900 Tom Tennant Way (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
For the vast majority of Salem residents, the water remains safe to drink and no action is needed.
Residents in need of assistance can contact City of Salem Public Works at 503-588-6311. For health information during the advisory, please call 2-1-1 from 8 p.m. to 6 p.m. Licensed facilities, including restaurants and public pools, with questions can contact Marion County Environmental Health at 503-588-5346 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The water advisory has impacted many people in Salem and surrounding areas. The City of Salem continues to be thankful for the continued patience and support of the community, partnering agencies, and local volunteer groups.
Additional information will continue to be distributed through the City's social media accounts and website.
