RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) – A precautionary drinking water advisory has been issued for several public water systems located in Lincoln County due to possible contamination related to the wildfires. The New Mexico Environment Department’s (NMED) Drinking Water Bureau and the New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) have issued the advisory.
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According to a news release, people using these water systems are advised to seek alternative drinking water sources. Officials say water from these systems can be used for washing clothes and dishes and nondrinking activities.
Also, people who are “immunocompromised/immunosuppressed, and/or have open cuts, wounds, or sores should not use the water to bathe until notified that the water is safe.”
The precautionary drinking water advisory applies to these water systems:
Drinking Water SystemPopulation ServedTall Pines Water Association84Cedar Creek536Alpine Village253Gavilan Hills Water System56
NMHealth recommends that private well owners follow these tips to help protect their health and respond after a wildfire:
Step 1: Well inspection and repair – check for damage to well components, including electrical systems, and remove debris.
Step 2: Flush the well until the water runs clear (approximately 30 minutes to one hour) and check the water pressure. This may best be done by a well contractor.
Step 3: Test your well water for Coliform bacteria including (E. coli), nitrate, and other contaminants of concern.
Step 4: Disinfect your well if the water tests positive for bacteria (E. coli) or repairs have been done. This may best be done by a well contractor.
Also, private well owners should have their wells tested at a certified drinking water laboratory before consuming. At a minimum, water should be tested for bacterial contamination. Also, if well piping is damaged, tests should include volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) such as BTEX. For more information on certified labs, click here.
As of Friday, June 28, the NMED’s Drinking Water Bureau has lifted the drinking water advisory for the following systems:
Drinking Water SystemPopulation ServedRuidoso Water System19,195High Country Lodge194Eagle Creek Shell Convenience Store800Eagle Creek Sports Complex250Smokey Bear Ranger Station180
The NMED has provided a map showing the areas that are still under advisory, as well as the areas where the advisory has been lifted. The areas in red are still advised to boil their water. The areas in green are no longer under advisory.
For more information on today’s announcement, please call the Drinking Water Bureau’s compliance supervisor, Brandi Littleton, at 575-323-4298.
