The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy says the city of Benton Harbor’s water system has met the requirements of Michigan’s Lead and Copper Rule during the most recent six-month sampling period. Test results released Thursday were the third consecutive sampling period to show declines in lead levels, keeping the city just below the federal action level. EGLE says samples taken from faucets throughout the city at 63 homes from January through the end of June were used in the calculations. Lab analysis released by EGLE showed results ranging from no detection of lead to 53 parts per billion. Five samples had more than 15 parts per billion of lead – the federal action level. EGLE says this means the city’s drinking water system is remaining stable while the city accelerates work to replace lead lines. So far, more that 70% of the service line connections in Benton Harbor have been replaced or confirmed to be lead free
