Public schools can now receive free testing for lead in drinking water, under a new state program. The State Water Resources Control Board, in cooperation with the California Department of Education, recently required all community water systems to test school drinking water, if requested by school officials. The superintendent of the Grass Valley Elementary School District, Eric Frederickson, says no regular testing has been done, but he would be interested…

click to listen to Eric Frederickson

Frederickson says the water was recently tested at their oldest school…

click to listen to Eric Frederickson

The California Department of Education says lead problems are infrequent in the state, which has newer water infrastructure and less corrosive water than other parts of the nation. But a couple of weeks ago, high lead levels were found in the drinking water at Sacramento State University, prompting tests of all sources. If school officials make a written request, the community water systems must collect the samples within three months and report results back within two business days. Sampling locations can include drinking fountains, cafeteria and food preparation areas, and reusable water bottle filling stations. The program extends until November 1st, 2019.