Progress 01/01/16 to 12/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Free well water sampling and assistance with interpretation of water results As private wells are not subject to requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act, well stewardship is the sole responsibility of well users. Most users do not participate in water testing or system maintenance unless noticeable quality issues or illnesses arise. Free well water testing campaigns provide opportunities to examine water quality and/or behaviors of the private well community while also providing a platform to deliver science-based knowledge and learning opportunities. North Carolina: Macon County: Private well users that had previously submitted water samples to the Macon County Public Health Center with first draw water lead levels above the recommend threshold of 15 µg/L were sought for participation in an intensive profiling sampling effort. In total, 15 well users participated in this water testing effort, which quantified inorganic parameters. Wake County: Free well water testing was offered to residents in the Apex and Riley Hill Road areas. In total, 47 well users participated in this water testing effort, which quantified microbial indicator bacteria, inorganic parameters, and Legionella species. Town of Orleans, New York: Free well water testing was offered to residents to understand the potential impact of a New York State Department of Transportation road salt storage barn on chloride concentrations in the local aquifer and subsequent corrosion rates. In total, 95 well users participated in this water testing effort, which quantified inorganic parameters. Flooding recovery: After major flooding events, well users are advised not to consume well water unless the water tests negative for coliform bacteria and/or the system has been disinfected. Louisiana: After a major flooding event in summer 2016, our team provided free well water testing to flood impacted residents (primarily Livingston and Ascension Parish). In total, 113 residents participated in water testing for microbial indicator bacteria, inorganic parameters, and Legionella species. Florida: After Hurricane Irma, our team partnered with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural SciencesExtension to provide free well water testing. In total, 179 residents from 9 hurricane impacted counties participated in well water testing for microbial indicator bacteria and inorganic parameters. In addition to individual well water testing, data collected from this campaign are helping to justify and provide insight into the need for a Florida Cooperative Extension well water program. Texas. After Hurricane Harvey, our team partnered with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service to provide free well water testing. In total, 630 residents from 21 hurricane impacted counties participated in well water testing for microbial indicator bacteria and inorganic parameters. This effort has been continued by the Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA) Region 6, as FEMA Region 6 is partnering with the AgriLife Extension-Virginia Tech team to provide free well water testing for an additional 3-4 months. In November 2017, 540 residents participated in this extended testing opportunity. In addition to individual well water testing, these free well water testing clinics are helping to expand participation in AgriLife Extension's Texas Well Owner Network. Examining remediation strategies Shock chlorination: After our initial testing of flood impacted wells in Louisiana, our team offered residents that had microbial contamination (i.e., tested positive for coliform bacteria) with an opportunity to participate in a free shock chlorination clinic and subsequent testing. In total, 30 residents participated in our shock chlorination class, and 16 participated in well water testing. Based on findings from this class, our team is currently collaborating with AgriLife Extension and Louisiana State University-Health (LSU-Health) to evaluate effective educational strategies. After Hurricane Harvey, AgriLife Extension held their first shock chlorination class in BrazoriaCounty, where 15 residents participated in the class. Additional shock chlorination classes are scheduled for the spring and summer of 2018. Low-cost lead filters: Our team was recently awarded a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant to explore the efficacy of low-cost lead filters and educational needs for adoption. This grant will allow additional free water testing, and community-based participatory research with residents to understand barriers to adoption of filters. Our community partners are the Macon County Health Department (Macon County, North Carolina), Louisiana Environmental Action Network (St. Joseph, Louisiana), and Southern United Neighborhood (New Orleans, Louisiana). These communities were targeted because their community research has already revealed water lead problems, and have unique demographics that will broaden community-based participatory research efforts. Specifically, Macon County represents a rural predominately white community, with low educational attainment and a large Hispanic/Latino community; New Orleans represents a diverse urban community, with a high proportion of low-income residents, and is predominately African American with a large Hispanic/Latino community; and St. Joseph represents a rural population of largely African-American, low-income individuals with low educational attainment. Barriers to outreach and educational programming: After Hurricane Matthew impacted the coastal counties of North Carolina in summer 2016, our team collaborated with the Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) and local health departments to survey resource and personnel capacities among the local health departments. In total, the 63 of the 85 local health departments (74%) participated in this survey. Data will be used to understand difference in resources and personnel among the local health departments. Professional Development, Teaching, and Public Outreach Through the research described above, Dr. Pieper's knowledge of electrochemistry, plumbing system corrosion, applied microbiology, and public health impacts has greatly improved under the mentorship of Dr. Edwards. As her research has had nationwide insights, Dr. Pieper had invitations to speak at the Private Well Class's National Stakeholder Meeting, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Safe Water for Community Health meeting and the Community of Practice Webinar, and at various state-level environmental health meetings. During this grant, Dr. Pieper was invited to give 14 presentations about the Flint Water Crisis and/or corrosion of private wells, participated in 4 national press conferences, and presented her work at 5 national conferences. To be competitive when seeking a faculty position, Dr. Edwards provided Dr. Pieper the opportunity to mentor graduate students (4 master's and 2 doctoral students). Together, Drs. Edwards and Pieper spearheaded and received five federal grants expanding and broadening the proposed research. These additional grants have allowed for additional research experience opportunities for 2 undergraduate, 3 masters, 3 doctoral, and 3 postdoctoral researchers at Virginia Tech, 1 postdoctoral researcher at the university of Maryland, and 3 master's students at LSU-Health. Changes/Problems:This postdoctoral fellowship emphasized three areas of professional training for Dr. Pieper, which included: (1) research, (2) teaching/public outreach, and (3) professional development. The research proposal aimed to advance the knowledge of corrosion control and public health protection in unregulated rural water systems by conducting laboratory testing at Virginia Tech and field testing in Macon County, North Carolina. Because of the success of the research team, the scope of work was broadened to include the characterization of microbial contaminants and encompass small regulated drinking water supplies in underserved communities. Overall, research efforts were conducted in nine states, provided thousands of free water testing opportunities for residents, and offered student research experiences at two universities. The research plan outlined in the proposal required securing extra funding. Our team applied for HUD's Healthy Homes Technical Studies Grant in 2016, but was not successful. This delayed our progress towards achieving the Objective 2, which will now be completed between 2018-2020. In addition, our Objective 3 began as a bench-scale assessment and has since transitioned into a combined of bench- and field-scale testing. This alteration occurred after our shock chlorination campaign in Louisiana. We learned that residents we unsure how to open their wells, so they could not preform shock chlorination, even if comprehensive instructions were provided. Thus, our new approach addresses multiple components of shock chlorination including: chlorine demand of well water, biofilm development, training of well users, review of all stat-level protocols, and long-term efficacy. Lastly, acidification was not viewed highly by residents or well professionals. We learned that more often wells will be mechanically cleaned and then disinfected. Our team submitted a proposal to conduct field evaluations of this method, but were unsuccessful. For professional development, we proposed that Dr. Pieper would co-teach Dr. Edwards' PhD level "Advanced Environmental Chemistry" course. With the increase in graduate students joining Dr. Edwards' group because of the new grants, they decided that Dr. Pieper would focus on mentoring and advising students. Dr. Pieper graduated her first master's student in February 2017 and is actively mentoring two master's students and two doctoral students. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Training activities Drinking water quality in private wells is unregulated at the state and federal level, leaving residents with sole responsibility for ensuring the safety of their water supply. Moreover, without state or federal oversight, there has been limited research into the corrosion mechanisms in these systems. This proposal focused on lead contamination in Macon County, but through this fellowship, Dr. Pieper was able to explore corrosion in municipal systems, in particular corrosion in Flint, Michigan. Flint Water Crisis On April 25, 2014, city officials in Flint, Michigan discontinued Detroit Water and Sewer Department drinking water service and began distributing treated Flint River water. The Flint River was a more corrosive and unstable water source, which did not have optimized corrosion control, and orthophosphate corrosion inhibitors were no longer added to the distributed water. Our team's testing results collected in the home of Mrs. LeeAnne Walter in Flint revealed water lead levels of 217-13,200 µg/L, attributable to the breakdown and detachment of lead-bearing iron corrosion scales from old lead and galvanized iron pipes. With the absence of corrosion control and prevalence of lead service lines throughout Flint, these results suggested potential risk of a system-wide lead in water contamination event. Collaborating with the Flint citizen scientist, our team conducted 5 system-wide sampling campaigns over a two-year period. The results of this longitudinal sampling campaign validated that unstable leaded scales and sediment were being mobilized and revealed that variations in water lead levels were associated with the types of leaded materials within the plumbing networks. These research experiences and mentoring from Dr. Edwards has broadened Dr. Pieper's corrosion knowledge, provided her the opportunity to present the longitudinal data at two national press conferences, and be lead authors on two manuscripts about Flint. In addition, Dr. Pieper has used the Flint Water Crisis data to further illustrate lead in water challenges for well users. Specifically, Flint's corrosive drinking water source and absence of corrosion control is considered an outlier among modern municipal water systems, but our team's prior research illustrates that the high lead levels during the crisis are typical for those residents who are dependent on private wells for potable water. For example, the 90th and 99th percentile water lead levels during the Flint Water Crisis and a 2012-2014 survey of private wells in Virginia were 26.8 and 26.7 µg/L and 118.9 and 95.0 µg/L, respectively. The 90th percentile water lead levels for both were 2 times higher than the lead action level, revealing a potentially larger and more widespread public health issue than currently acknowledged. Professional Development During this two year postdoctoral fellowship, Dr. Pieper has presented at 5 state or national conferences as lead author and been invited to present her work at 14 conferences or meetings. In addition, Drs. Edwards and Pieper have submitted 7 grants, of which 5 have been awarded. In total, this duo has been awarded over $3.5 million dollars to continue researching lead in drinking water and private well water challenges. Through this additional funding, our team expanded and provided research opportunities for 2 full time undergraduate researchers, 3 master's students, 3 doctoral students, and 3 postdoctoral researchers at Virginia Tech, 3 master's students at Louisiana State University Health Science Center, and 1 postdoctoral researcher at the university of Maryland. The undergraduate and graduate students are being mentored and advised by Dr. Pieper and her fellow postdoctoral researchers at Virginia Tech, with Dr. Edwards mentoring and advising the postdoctoral researchers. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?All participants in well water testing campaigns have received individual water quality reports, interpretation materials, and contact information for follow-up questions and assistance. Moreover, effort was given to connect well users with their local Cooperative Extension program to promote develop of Cooperative Extension well programs. The research findings have been disseminated at state and national-level conferences and via peer-reviewed publications. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?While this fellowship is ending on December 31, 2017, the main research themes described in this report are continuing. This fellowship provided Dr. Kelsey Pieper the opportunity to grow and develop as a researcher, and as a result, she has collaborated on and spearheaded grants that are continuing past the end of the is grant.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
This proposal has helped prepare Dr. Pieper for a career in academia. She has assisted and spearheaded grant proposals, of which 5 have been awarded (totaling $3.5 million dollars); mentored undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students; and advanced her research program and skillset. This fellowship has facilitated research in nine states, provided thousands of free water testing opportunities for residents, and offered student research experiences at two universities. Thus, the overarching goal of increasing awareness of private well water challenges at the state and federal level was achieved. Objective 1. 1) Major activities We evaluated lead in well water concentrations at the homes of two children with elevated blood lead levels (BLLs) in Macon County, which had no traditional source of lead exposure. We also profiled 15 private wells in Macon County with known lead in water issues to: (1) identify patterns of lead leaching within the well; (2) evaluate the efficacy of current remediation options; and (3) examine underestimation of lead based on well water sampling protocols. 2) Data collected Homes of two children with elevated BLLs and 15 private well users that had submitted water samples with first draw water lead levels above the action level were sought for participation. Sequential and time series water samples were collected at the kitchen taps and well heads. 3) Summary of results Water lead release patterns and sources of contamination differed among the 15 private wells. Elevated lead was associated with three sources of lead release: (1) dissolution of lead from well plumbing during periods of stagnation; (2) scouring of leaded scales and sediments along the well plumbing infrastructure during initial water use; and (3) mobilization of leaded scales during continued water use. 4) Key outcomes Accurate quantification of water lead was highly dependent on sample collection methods, as flushing dramatically reduced detection of lead hazards. The incidence of high water lead in private wells may be present in other counties of North Carolina and elsewhere in the United States. The underestimation of water lead in wells may be masking cases of elevated BLLs attributed to this source and hindering opportunities to mitigate this exposure. Objective 2. HUD grant to evaluate POUs 1) Major activities In fall 2017, our team was awarded a $606,225 Healthy Homes Technical Studies Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Develop (HUD). Through this grant, our team will determine the short- and long-term performance of common point-of-use lead filters (POUs) under water conditions typical of high risk water systems to develop knowledge needed to protect consumers. This three-year project will begin January 2, 2018. 2) Data collected Our team will: (1) examine POU lead removal efficiencies when exposed to varying concentrations of soluble and particulate lead and iron; (2) evaluate POU efficacy for periods up to and beyond rated capacity; (3) identify challenges and barriers to POU use; (4) evaluate pre-and post-intervention awareness and risk perceptions of lead; and (5) conduct community focus groups to develop culturally appropriate strategies for outreach and intervention. 3) Summary of results This project will not start until January 2018. 4) Key outcomes Nothing to report. Manuscript: Understanding lead release to water and effectiveness of public health remediation strategies 1) Major activities We developed an oversimplified 'lead in water equation' that helps explain the key variables controlling the presence of lead in drinking water and compared the efficacy of four household-level water lead remediation strategies during the Flint Water Crisis. 2) Data collected We used previously collected data. 3) Summary of results The 'lead in water equation' illustrates how the combination of certain variables results in exposure to high water lead levels. The three key variables that influence the presence of lead in drinking water are: (1) lead-bearing plumbing; (2) corrosive water; and (3) ineffective corrosion control treatment. However, the ability to control and correct these factors are largely the responsibility of water utility. When public health officials or residents are concerned about water lead levels, four household-level remediation strategies are commonly implemented: (1) flushing water prior to consumption; (2) providing bottled water; (3) installing a NSF certified lead filter; and (4) removing lead service lines. The efficacy associated with these remediation strategies are explored in the context of the Flint Water Crisis. 4) Key outcomes It is imperative that simple but accurate scientific information be made available to the public health community, government officials, utility personnel, and the public. Without this information, water lead exposures may continue to be inadequately addressed, and opportunities to optimize exposure prevention efforts may be missed. Objective 3. 1) Major activities Our team received two National Science Foundation RAPID grants to: (1) characterize well water contamination and recovery after severe flooding; (2) evaluate well water disinfection protocols; and (3) overcome barriers to distributing public health guidance in well communities. In addition, our team has collaborated with residents in Orleans, NY to understand the impact of road salt on the corrosion of drinking water infrastructure. 2) Data collected Flooding: To date, our research team has collected 178 samples in Florida, 113 in Louisiana, and 1,170 in Texas. All water samples were tested for coliform bacteria, and randomly selected samples received analysis of inorganics and pathogens. In addition to water sampling, residents were asked to complete a brief questionnaire examining testing, resource, and recovery needs. In Virginia, we collected stagnant and purged water samples from non-flooded and flooded monitoring wells to evaluate natural attenuation. In North Carolina, we surveyed health departments to evaluate disparities in outreach and personnel. Disinfection: We are providing disinfection training and additional testing opportunities to residents that test positive for coliform bacteria. In Louisiana, 30 residents attending a shock chlorination clinic, but none wished to participate follow-up testing. In Texas, our team is working with well drillers to host shock chlorination classes in spring 2018. In addition, bench-scale testing is being conducted at Virginia Tech to develop an effective chlorination protocol. Road salt: 95 wells were tested in the Town of Orleans area. Corrosion coupon testing was conducted at Virginia Tech to examine the impact of road salt on the corrosion of well infrastructure. 3) Summary of results Flooding: Higher rates of coliform bacteria were observed in wells impacted by floodwaters. Residents were worried that their well water was no longer safe and were seeking information about water testing, well maintenance, and treatment options. There are disparities among local health departments, which impacts abilities for outreach and technical assistance for the well community. The natural attenuation study is still in progress. Disinfection: A main barrier that prevents residents from disinfecting their well is their limited knowledge of well characteristics. Road salt: 12% of first draw samples exceeded the lead action level, and the average chloride concentration was 179 mg/L. Bench-scale testing suggested that road salt will accelerate corrosion and attack on some plumbing components and pipes present in homes. 4) Key outcomes There is a dire need for low-cost, practical, and effective remediation strategies to ensure access to safe drinking water. Even if remediation strategies are effective, well water quality cannot be improved unless outreach and education strategies are effective in motivating well maintenance behaviors.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., L.H. Krometis, V. Nystrom, D. Gallagher, B. Benham, and M. Edwards. Profiling private water systems to identify patterns of waterborne lead exposure at the American Water Works Association Water Quality Technology Conference. Indianapolis, IN, November 13-17, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. Lead in well water and well water recovery after flooding at 2017 Virginia Engineers Conference. Portsmouth, VA, September 20-22, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. and M. Edwards. Study of lead in drinking water supplies at North Carolina Environmental Health State of Practice Committees 2nd Annual Environmental Health Symposium. Ashville, NC, August 2-3, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. What practitioners need to know about lead in well water at the Private Well Classs National Stakeholder Meeting. Champaign, IL, May 23-25, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
1. Pieper, K.J., M. Edwards, and the Flint Water Study Team Access to safe potable water in the US: infrastructure inequality and environmental injustice at Purdue University Department of Agronomys departmental seminar series. West Lafayette, IN, April 24, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., M. Edwards, and the Flint Water Study Team. The Flint Water Crisis: hold paramount the safety, health, and well-being of the public at Southeast Rural Community Assistance Projects 48th Annual Water Is Life! Conference & Luncheon. Roanoke, VA, April 19, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. and M. Edwards. Lead studies in private drinking water supplies at North Carolina Environmental Health State of Practice Committees Groundwater & Wells: Preparing for Tomorrow. Chapel Hill, NC, April 5-6, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K., M. Edwards, and the Flint Water Study Team. Access to safe potable water in the US: infrastructure inequality and environmental injustice at Appalachian State Universitys Water Justice Week. Boone, NC, March 27, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Edwards, M., K. Pieper, and A. Katner. Non-academic perspectives on access to safe -potable water in the U.S at the University of North Carolina Water and Health Conference. Chapel Hill, NC, October 10-14, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., V. Nystrom, and M. Edwards. Investigating lead levels in Macon County well water at the 32nd Annual North Carolina Onsite Water Protection Conference. Raleigh, NC, October 11-13, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. Understanding waterborne lead in private well systems at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Safe Water for Community Health (Safe WATCH) meeting. Atlanta, GA, September 20-23, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. Investigating corrosion in private wells and evaluating the effectiveness of remediation practices at the US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture Fellows Project Directors Meeting. Washington, DC, August 30-31, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Nystrom, V., M. Tang, K.J. Pieper, B. Little, R. Guilliams, T. Esqueda, M. Edwards. Water discoloration due to a source water change: bench scale testing of galvanized iron pipe corrosion at the American Water Works Association Water Quality Technology Conference. Portland, OR, November 12-16, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Brown, K., A. Katner, K. Pieper, L. ORear, M. Edward. The Great Louisiana Flood of 2016: private well owner knowledge, response and needs at the American College of Epidemiologists Annual Meeting: Methods of Translating and Disseminating Epidemiology into Public Health. New Orleans, LA. September 25, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Katner, A., K. Pieper, K. Brown, J. Parks, C. Hu, H. Lin, X. Wang, M. Edwards. Evaluation of waterborne lead in New Orleans, LA: policy implications for monitoring and exposure reduction at the American College of Epidemiologists Annual Meeting: Methods of Translating and Disseminating Epidemiology into Public Health. New Orleans, LA. September 25, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Mohsin, H., K.J. Pieper, M. Tang, J. Parks, M. Edwards Poster: Effect of road salt on lead leaching from plumbing components at the Virginia Techs Office of Undergraduate Research Summer Symposium. Blacksburg, VA, July 27, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Strom, L., S. Masters, R. McCuin, J. Clancy, K. Pieper, A. Katner, W. Rhoads, M. Edwards, and A. Pruden. Naegleria fowleri: identifying factors that trigger brain-eating amoebae in drinking water at the American Water Works Association Water Quality Technology Conference. Indianapolis, IN, November 13-17, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., A. Katner, S. Roy, and M. Edwards. Lead in drinking water: disparities in water infrastructure and associated homeowner burdens, at the University of North Carolina Water and Health Conference. Chapel Hill, NC, October 10-14, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K., M. Edwards, and the Flint Water Study Team. The Flint Water Crisis: hold paramount the safety, health, and well-being of the public at Union Colleges Get the Lead Out: Safe Drinking Water and Environmental Justice seminar series. Schenectady, NY, February 8, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K. M. Tang, A. Manta and M. Edwards. Flint resident sampling: August 2015 July 2016 at the Virginia Tech Flint Water Press Conference. Blacksburg, VA, August 11, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K. and M. Edwards. Flint resident sampling: August 2015 vs. March 2016 at the Virginia Tech Flint Water Press Conference. Blacksburg, VA, April 12, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K and M. Edwards. Flint resident sampling: August 2015 vs. March 2016 at the U.S. EPA Region 5 Flint Data Experts Panel. Chicago, IL, April 4, 2016.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Tang, M., K. Pieper, S. Roy, J. Parks, and M. Edwards. Flint resident sampling: August 2015 August 2017 at the Virginia Tech Flint Water Press Conference. Blacksburg, VA, September 15, 2017.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Tang, M., K. Pieper, and M. Edwards. Flint resident sampling: August 2015 November 2016 at the Virginia Tech Flint Water Press Conference. Blacksburg, VA, December 2, 2016.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., M. Tang, M.A. Edwards. Flint Water Crisis caused by interrupted corrosion control: investigating Ground Zero home. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2017, 51(4), 20072014.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Katner, A., K.J. Pieper, Y. Lambrinidou, K. Brown, C. Hu, H.W. Mielke, and M.A. Edwards. Weaknesses in federal drinking water regulations and public health policies that impede lead poisoning prevention and environmental justice. Environ. Justice 2016, 9(4), 109-117
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., V.E. Nystrom, J. Parks, K. Jennings, H. Faircloth, J.B. Morgan, J. Bruckner, M.A. Edwards. Elevated lead in water of private wells poses health risks: case study in Macon County, North Carolina. Manuscript submitted to Environ. Sci. Technol.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., A. Katner, M. Tang, M.A. Edwards. Understanding lead release to water and effectiveness of public health remediation strategies. Manuscript submitted to J. Water Health.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Tang, M., V. Nystrom, K.J. Pieper, J. Parks, B. Little, R. Guilliams, T. Esqueda, M. Edwards. Relationship between discolored water from corrosion of old iron pipe and source water conditions. Manuscript submitted to Environ. Eng. Sci.
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Katner A., K. Pieper, Y. Lambrinidou, K. Brown, W. Subra, M. Edwards. Chapter 13: Americas path to drinking water infrastructure inequality and environmental injustice. In Handbook of Sustainability; Robert Brinkman, Editor.; Palgrave Macmillan: New York 2017. In press.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., E. Ling, B. Benham, and M. Edwards. Indicators of lead in water well. BSE-210NP. Virginia Cooperative Extension, 2016. http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/BSE/BSE-210/BSE-210.html.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., A. Katner, D. Dai, K. Brown, W. Rhoads, A. Pruden, M. Edwards. Characterizing private well communities after a historic flooding event at the American Water Works Association Water Quality Technology Conference. Portland, OR, November 12-16, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., A. Katner, M. Tang, M. Edwards. Examining the effectiveness of household water lead remediation strategies during the Flint Water Crisis at the University of North Carolina Water and Health Conference. Chapel Hill, NC, October 16-20, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Katner, A., K.J. Pieper, K. Brown, D. Dai, L. ORear, W. Rhoads, A. Pruden, M. Edwards. Private well water quality and emergency resource needs after a historic flooding event at the University of North Carolina Water and Health Conference. Chapel Hill, NC, October 16-20, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pierce, G. and K.J. Pieper. Contamination, detection and perception: classifying and correcting drinking water quality parameters of concern post-Flint at the University of North Carolina Water and Health Conference. Chapel Hill, NC, October 16-20, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
K.J. Pieper, A. Katner, K. Brown, W. Rhoads, M. Edwards. Examining resource needs for well users after flooding events at the Private Well Classs National Stakeholder Meeting. Champaign, IL, May 23-25, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., V. Nystrom, K. Jennings, J. Bruckner, and M. Edwards. Examining lead release from well components in Macon County, NC at the North Carolina State University Water Resources Research Institute Annual Conference. Raleigh, NC, March 15-16, 2017.
|
Progress 01/01/16 to 12/31/16
Outputs
Target Audience:Private well users: We provided free well water sampling to residents in Orleans, NY, Livingston Parish, LA, andMacon County, NC. These communities are predominately rural residents, with some also being low-income.These sampling efforts were conducted because of known sources and/or events of contamination. Specifically, we examined road salt contamination issues in Orleans, flood-impacted wells in Livingston Parish, and lead poisoning cases associated with well water inMacon County. We provided well water quality and remediation information to residents using modified outreach and extension materials developed by the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Private well community (researchers, government officials, policy makers, etc.): Results from our Macon Countysampling effort have been communicated to various stakeholders in the private well community. Through conference-style presentations, we have communicated the risks of using "lead-free" plumbing in well water construction and illustrated how current sampling methods can underestimate lead in well water. Our long-term objective is to provide science-based justification to encourage policy changes that willimprove public health protections for rural residents reliant on unregulated private wells. Victoria Nystrom: Victoria is a master's student on the project and received a 2016 Edna Sussman Intern Fellowship to sample private wells in Macon County. She will be developing a report describing her findings and presenting her research February 2017 at her master's defense. Changes/Problems:There have not been major problems associated with this research. However, the research has expanded beyond our initial study site of Macon County, NC. Livingston Parish, LA and Orleans, NY are facing similar well waterissues and lack remediation options. To incorporate these communities, we have sought additional funding and to date have received two grants (Edna Sussman Intern Fellowship and NSF RAPID grant). By adding these additional components, we are strengthening our overall ability to assist these rural communities and advance knowledge of well water problems. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Our mentoring plan emphasizes three areas of professional training including research, teaching/public outreach, and professional development. As this project addresses lead in drinking water, Dr. Pieper has strengthened her understanding of electrochemistry and corrosion control by participating in Flint Water Crisis research (Dr. Edwards leads the Flint Water Study team at Virginia Tech.) In addition to examining the water chemistry conditions that resulted in the disruption of leaded corrosion scales, Dr. Pieper has participated in presenting this scientific information to the public through several national press conferences and invited presentations. The Edna Bailey Sussman Fund Environmental Internship Program: Victoria Nystrom (master's student in Dr. Edwards' lab) received an Edna Sussman Internship Award to investigate patterns of lead leaching in private wells in Macon County in Summer 2016. Through this award, Dr. Pieper mentored her first graduate student and oversaw the administrative responsibilities of the research. Dr. Pieper has worked with Victoria Nystromto collect well water samples in Macon County, analyze and evaluate water quality trends, and develop a technical report for her master's degree. NSF RAPID response grant: Dr. Pieper identified the need to ensure access to clean drinking water for private well users after a flooding event. She developed her first NSF RAPID grant, which expands on Objective 3 by including research regarding dissemination of information and an evaluation of opportunistic pathogens in flooded well water. Dr. Pieper developed this project in collaboration with a colleague from Louisiana State University and is currently overseeing the execution of the research. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results were disseminated using previously developed Virginia Cooperative Extension materials (http://www.wellwater.bse.vt.edu). Through the NSF RAPID grant, we will start evaluating dissemination of information to improve communication to rural, private well communities. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. 1. By February, we will have finished data analysis and developed a technical report. 2. By the end of Summer 2017, we will develop amanuscript for publication. Objective 2. 1. By mid-February, we will develop two grants to support our testing ofreadily available point-of-use (POU) filters. (These grants will support the purchase of the filters.) 2. In Summer 2017, we will test POU filters according to NSF certification protocols but use test water conditions more representative of well water quality (e.g., microbial loading, lower pH). 3. If we receive one of the grants due in February, we will pilot test the application of best ranked POU filters in homes to evaluate field conditions and homeowner behaviors. Objective 3. 1. In January 2017, we will be monitoring the recovery of private wells in Virginia and North Carolina to assess natural attenuation rates. We will also shock chlorinate some of these wells to assess recovery associated with disinfection. We will be measuring microbial and chemical parameters during this experiment. 2. By the end of Spring 2017, we will finish data analysis of the New York road salt study to determine the impact of high chloride levels on well infrastructure. We will develop this into a manuscript for publication. 3. Starting in Summer 2017, we will test acidification of private wells in the lab and measure microbial and chemical parameters along with deterioration of plumbing infrastructure.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
This year, our USDA-NIFA research project examined the nature of lead leaching in North Carolina (NC) private wells to inform and update current sampling protocols, remediation strategies, and construction practices. Fifteen private wells with known lead in water problems were profiled (i.e., samples collected at different depths and time intervals) to evaluate the sources and locations of lead release. Two patterns of lead release were observed - (1) corrosion associated with stagnant water and (2) mobilization of particulate lead associated with water use. Results from this effort illustrate that the well water (i.e., source water) can be contaminated with lead before entering the home plumbing. Thus, current remediation strategies that address home plumbing corrosion need to be reevaluated to ensure that they are adequately reducing and/or removing lead originating from the well. In addition, this research highlights the importance of proper sampling protocols. Current NC well water sampling methods recommend a 5-15 minute flush before collection, which may miss and underestimate the lead released from the plumbing within the well. 1: Quantify the nature of waterborne lead release in private well households associated with childhood lead poisoning, and evaluate the plumbing source materials for the elevated lead During Summer 2016, we worked with the Macon County Health Department to collect water samples from 15 private wells with known lead in water problems. At each site, eight water samples were collected - the first and second liter of water (i.e., first and second draws) followed by a series of 1-L flush samples taken at defined flushing intervals (1, 2, 3, 5, 10, and 15 minutes). Following this profile, a 250-mL stagnant water sample was collected from the kitchen tap. When available, well construction records and documentation of past remediation efforts were provided by the health department. All 15 first draw samples from the well contained detectable lead (≥1 µg/L), with 10 samples exceeding the EPA lead threshold of 15 µg/L. Mean and median lead concentrations were 248 and 30 µg/L, respectively. Lead levels decreased in the second draw samples, as mean and median lead were 5.8 and 2.0 µg/L and only one sample exceeded 15 µg/L. Lead levels continued to decrease with flushing, and 11 wells had non-detectable lead after 1 minute of flushing. However, detectable lead during flushing was observed in four homes, suggesting that there were two lead release patterns among these 15 well systems. The highest lead concentrations were measured in first and second draws of water for all 15 wells. Lead was correlated with zinc, copper, and iron indicating lead leaching from brass and galvanized iron components at the sample outlet. For homes categorized as type 1 corrosion (n=11), flushing this stagnant water in contact with lead-bearing plumbing components reduced lead to non-detectable levels. For homes categorized as type 2 corrosion (n=4), detectable lead was measured sporadically throughout the flushing series (concentrations ranging from 1.4-10.7 µg/L). This detectable lead was primarily in the particulate form (>99% composition), suggesting that leaded-scales were mobilized during periods of water use. While a 5-minute flush may be an effective remediation option for homes with type 1 corrosion, flushing may increase the likelihood of lead in water for homes with type 2 corrosion. In addition, whole-house treatment options aimed at optimizing water chemistry (e.g., acid neutralizer) will not filter and remove background lead concentrations associated with well water contamination. Thus, point-of-use filter options (Phase 2 of our research) are being explored. Our analysis will also address the underestimation of lead in well water associated with sampling protocols. The EPA requires lead be measured in the first draw of water following a 6+ hour stagnation. In NC, private wells are flushed for 5-15 minutes before collecting a lead sample. Using the Macon County data, we will determine the extent that lead in well water is being missed due to flushing, which is a critical piece of our research as NC public health messaging is developed based on the flushed well water data. 2. Examine the short and long-term performance of common low-cost lead remediation strategies using synthesized water simulating private well water In 2017, we will be evaluating low-cost point-of-use filters in our lab using water conditions more representative of private well water quality. We are currently writing two grants to fund the purchase of testing supplies. 3. Conduct a rigorous controlled lab study to compare the impact of commonly recommended chemical treatments on scaling, corrosion, microbial quality, well-infrastructure longevity, and examine the long-term benefits and detriments of such practices We recently received an NSF RAPID response grant to assist private well users with the recovery of their well systems after the summer flooding in Louisiana and North Carolina. Because we received an NSF RAPID grant, we have added a multi-level intervention research component. Specifically, we are interested in how well water resources are disseminated before and after a disaster, to improve communication to rural residents. In October, our community-wide testing effort examined microbial contamination rates following the flooding event. We had 113 residents participate in the testing and complete a survey about their access to well water disaster information. We are currently entering and analyzing the data. Next, we will be shock chlorinating private wells to determine if this disinfection practice remediates microbial contamination and if it increases corrosion rates. We are also determining if shock chlorination improves the rate of recovery compared natural attenuation. Lastly, we are evaluating the impact of road salting practices on private wells in Orleans, NY. There is concern that the elevated levels of chloride associated with the road salt contamination may influence corrosion within the well. We have analyzed more than 90 private wells at major intersections and downstream of a salt barn with improper storage practices. We are currently analyzing the data.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
"Indicators of lead in well water"; BSE-210NP; Virginia Cooperative Extension: Blacksburg, VA, 2016.
This is a Virginia Cooperative Extension publication on lead in well water.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., L.H. Krometis, V. Nystrom, D. Gallagher, B. Benham, and M. Edwards. Profiling private water systems to identify patterns of waterborne lead exposure at the American Water Works Association Water Quality Technology Conference. Indianapolis, IN, November 13-17, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K. Lead in well water: concentrations, regulations and remediation at the 71st Soil and Water Conservation Society Annual Conference. Louisville, KY, July 24-27, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., V. Nystrom, and M. Edwards Investigating lead levels in Macon County well water at the 32nd Annual North Carolina Onsite Water Protection Conference. Raleigh, NC, October 11-13, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J. Understanding waterborne lead in private well systems at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Safe Water for Community Health (Safe WATCH) meeting. Atlanta, GA, September 20-23, 2016.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., V. Nystrom, K. Jennings, J. Bruckner, and M. Edwards Examining lead release from well components in Macon County, NC at the Water Resources Research Institute Conference. Raleigh, NC, March 15-16, 2017.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Katner, A., K.J. Pieper, Y. Lambrinidou, K. Brown, C. Hu, H.W. Mielke, and M.A. Edwards. Weaknesses in federal drinking water regulations and public health policies that impede lead poisoning prevention and environmental justice. Environ. Justice 2016, 9(4), 109-117.
**This paper is a literature review of lead in water regulations. I'm acknowledged as a USDA-NIFA fellow.**
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pieper, K.J., L.H. Krometis, and M. Edwards. Quantifying lead-leaching potential from plumbing exposed to aggressive waters. J. Am. Water Works Assoc. 2016, 108(9), E458-E466.
**I'm acknowledged as a USDA-NIFA fellow.**
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