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EPA: 6 Arkansas Water Systems Exceed Lead Limit Since 2013

An analysis shows six Arkansas water systems have exceeded federally allowable lead limits at least once since the start of 2013.

The ongoing crisis in Flint, Michigan, where residents have been without tap water for months, has highlighted how lead-tainted water can poison children, affect IQ, the ability to pay attention and academic achievement.

An Associated Press analysis of Environmental Protection Agency data shows a sample from the Community Water System that serves more than 30,000 people in the Greers Ferry area had 25 parts per billion of lead. Harrison Waterworks, with nearly 17,000 people served, reported a sample at 17 parts per billion.

The EPA allowable level is 15 parts per billion.

Other systems with high lead levels are Delight Waterworks, Houston Waterworks, Keiser Waterworks and the North Howard Rural Water Association.

The Associated Press is one of the largest and most trusted sources of independent newsgathering, supplying a steady stream of news to its members, international subscribers and commercial customers. AP is neither privately owned nor government-funded; instead, it's a not-for-profit news cooperative owned by its American newspaper and broadcast members.
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