An Imperfect Storm

An Imperfect Storm

The morning of December 27, 2022 brought a king tide to Washington State’s Puget Sound. A storm surge caused by a deep low-pressure system raised the water level by a further two feet. The resulting tidal anomaly caused significant coastal flooding, including around Whidbey Island in Island County, Washington, where many homes have been built on beaches and sand spits. Many of these low-lying communities were impacted, some residents had to be evacuated, and homes and businesses suffered water damage. Roads were closed in places. Fortunately, there were no reports of loss of life. Continue reading An Imperfect Storm

EPA Warns of Health Problems When PFAS Levels in Drinking Water Are Inconceivably Tiny

“For members of the general public who are attuned to drinking water contaminants, the EPA announcement is raising concerns, according to John Lovie, president of the Whidbey Island Water Systems Association. Located in Washington state, the association counts about 100 water systems as members, which range in size from several thousand customers to just three or four. “ Continue reading EPA Warns of Health Problems When PFAS Levels in Drinking Water Are Inconceivably Tiny

Whidbey Island water systems respond to state’s draft rules on PFAS

Whidbey Island water systems respond to state’s draft rules on PFAS | South Whidbey Record “Overall our member water systems are positive about the draft rule changes,” association Vice President John Lovie said in an email. “They recognize that their patrons are concerned about what is in their drinking water and want to know this information. At the same time they are concerned about the financial and administrative burden of this rule on water systems that may have as few as 15 hookups and rely on a volunteer board.” Continue reading Whidbey Island water systems respond to state’s draft rules on PFAS

Clinton forum to focus on water, community

Clinton forum to focus on water, community | South Whidbey Record South Whidbey’s drinking water and community will be the focus of a forum, and then a three-day conference in Clinton next week. A panel of county, state and local officials are expected to attend, including: Island County Commissioner Helen Price Johnson, and Island County Public Health Director Keith Higman; Jennifer Kropack, a regional planner with the Washington State Department of Health’s Office of Drinking Water; Randi Perry, utilities manager for Langley; and John Lovie, with the Sun Vista/Sunlight Beach homeowners association. Continue reading Clinton forum to focus on water, community