America's water supply systems are aging and since some of them contain asbestos cement pipes, there is an urgent need for replacement. We just learned that in Eagle Point (OR), the responsible authorities are now being confronted with data that makes it very clear that it is time to take action and address the problem. You might say, well, you know what: in a way that's actually good, because it was about time.
Because now cities and municipalities are practically forced to replace the old piping, since it has been identified as a potential cause for asbestos induced health conditions, like a number of gastrointestinal cancers and mesothelioma. But there are always two sides to a story. The timing couldn't be any worse given our current state of the economy. Cities and towns all over the country have to cope with significant cuts in their budgets. How do the city officials in Eagle Point deal with the issue? Their plan is to finance the replacement of the old asbestos cement pipes with federal stimulus funds. However, it is not clear yet, if and when they will get them.
David Hussell, city administrator in Eagle Point, stated that they would need a funding of $3 million to renew the city's water tank which holds 4 million gallons and also to substitute the old asbestos cement piping with a new state of the art line.
But the problem is not only present in Eagle Point. Many cities and towns are still dependent on their outdated water supply infrastructure. Even though, a study conducted in 1993 by the Word Health Organization, clearly identified a small, yet, existing health risk caused by asbestos fibers that are ingested via drinking water and supplied by asbestos cement pipes.



The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) communicated that according to the Safe Drinking Water Act (1974), 7 million fibers or less per liter is established as a safe level. The report further explains that the asbestos contamination can not only be attributed to the natural rock formations - which we for instance see in Washington State and California - but must be related to asbestos cement piping. Furthermore, the EPA set forth rules and regulations regarding drinking water in order to protect the public.
For example, it requires mandatory annual testing of water utilities to check on the presents of contaminants, including asbestos fibers. In instances where the safe levels are being exceeded, the water supplier is obligated to inform the public via media, including radio, TV, Internet and newspapers. In some States, access to alternative drinking water supplies is a requirement since 1992.

As we just discussed, the risk is small, indeed - but it is evident. Let's take the example of Woodstock, New York State. In 1985 it was made public, that the public water supply was contaminated with asbestos. The old cement pipes were dated back to the late 1950. Studies conducted between 1980 and 1998 by the NY State Cancer Registry documented no statistically significant increase in gastrointestinal cancer rates, but an increase in pancreatic cancer incidents.

It is advisable, especially if you live in parts of the country where you are likely dependent on an older water supply infrastructure, to contact your local human health and human service department to find out if there is any indication of a drinking water problem caused by asbestos cement pipes.