CRRUA to build arsenic treatment plant in Santa Teresa

For years many residents in Santa Teresa have refused to drink the water because of high arsenic levels.

On Thursday, the water utility that serves the area tells ABC-7 they’re getting closer to a solution.

Construction is underway to build an arsenic treatment plant in Santa Teresa. But residents say they’re still unsure if that’ll be enough.

Gloria Salas has lived in Santa Teresa for 18 years. She says she doesn’t dare drink the water that comes from her faucet.

“We don’t trust to drink this water,” Salas said. “We know that something is wrong with our water system.”

For years the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority has sent letters to residents warning them about the high arsenic levels, prompting many to turn to bottled water.

“We are wasting money financially,” Salas said. “Buying bottled water almost every week. We buy about three cases of water.”

In every water bill, by state law CRRUA sends a warning that states: “people who consume too much arsenic over time can develop skin problems and cancer.”

“That is a judgement call if you will by the consumer whether to drink that water or not,” Executive Director of CRRUA Brent Westmoreland said. “I cannot begin to fault any customer for not having issues and calling in, that’s within their right and it’s my job to deal with that and visit with them.”

CRRUA recently received $4.8 million worth of federal funds to build an arsenic treatment plant. It should be completed by early September. In the mean time, residents remain vigilant.

“I don’t have faith on it yet so we have to see,” Salas said. “But to tell you the truth I don’t think it’s going to happen.”

Westmoreland says the maximum recommended level for arsenic in water is 10 parts per billion. Currently Santa Teresa is at 16. He said both plants in Sunland Park are currently up and running.