The Oregon Health Authority published a final report finding that drinking water from many of nearly 60 domestic wells tested north of Prineville poses health risks from contaminants including arsenic, nitrates, and coliform bacteria.
About half of the wells tested had detectable levels of lead, typically from plumbing, according to the report. About half also contained manganese at levels that can cause bad taste, discoloration, and cloudiness in drinking water.
Seven wells had manganese levels high enough to pose health risks to children under 1 year old, the report found.
The agency recommended that households seek blood lead testing, especially for children; treat their water; and verify treatment effectiveness with additional testing. The Oregon Health Authority shared the testing results and health risk information with affected residents and offered one-on-one consultation with an OHA toxicologist.
The final report, released following a two-month public comment period, remained unchanged from the draft version published in June 2026 except for the inclusion of five comments received during the comment period and the agency's responses. Those comments addressed topics outside the scope of OHA's analysis and did not result in changes to the report.