Oklahoma lawmakers are exploring ways to address aging water systems and water quality problems that have left some rural residents under extended boil orders.
Senator Bill Coleman requested an interim study focused in part on Osage County Rural Water District 21, which serves about 450 customers in the Pawhuska and Newkirk areas.
The district’s principal engineer, Matthew Coe, said its replacement treatment plant failed to properly account for high levels of iron and manganese in the water.
The district is working with the Osage Nation and the city of Pawhuska on a plan to meet drinking water standards. The improvements could cost more than $20 million.
“Osage County isn’t alone. Aging water infrastructure has become a costly problem for rural communities across the state, with rural water districts facing their own unique challenges,” Coleman said.
Oklahoma Water Resources Board officials told lawmakers that statewide water infrastructure needs exceed $24 billion. Only 43% of the state’s public water systems report charging rates sufficient to cover their infrastructure costs.
Lawmakers also heard concerns about aging water lines and the resulting water loss. Coleman said he will work with colleagues on long-term solutions to improve access to clean drinking water.
