Message from the City Manager: Drinking Water Information

Dear Boardman Community,

The City of Boardman is aware of questions and concerns circulating about our drinking water. We want to share clear, factual information and encourage everyone to rely on verified sources when discussing water quality. Accurate information matters—especially when it comes to public health.

Our water source and treatment

The City’s drinking water comes from a groundwater source and is treated as required to meet state and federal drinking water standards. As part of that process, the water is disinfected with chlorine, which helps protect against harmful bacteria and other microorganisms and supports safe, reliable water for our community. 

Routine testing and oversight

The City complies with a stringent routine testing schedule established by the Oregon Health Authority, which includes weekly testing in some areas. This testing is part of ongoing requirements that help verify water quality and identify issues early.

Nitrate levels in the City of Boardman’s drinking water

We also want to address nitrate levels directly, since this topic is often part of recent misinformation:

• Federal nitrate limit for safe drinking water with no mitigation required is set at 10 mg/L (ppm)
• Nitrate recorded average level from 2003 to current is 2.9 mg/L (ppm)
• Highest nitrate level recorded since 2015 is 5.85 mg/L (ppm)
• 2025 nitrate level is recorded at 4.26 mg/L (ppm)

Where to find official water testing results

Oregon provides a public database with water testing results for municipalities statewide. 

You can view official data here: https://yourwater.oregon.gov/

Questions or concerns

If you have questions about drinking water safety or would like additional clarification, you may also contact the Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Services:

• Portland Office: (971) 673-0405
• Pendleton Office: (541) 966-0900
• Email: info.drinkingwater [at] odhsoha.oregon.gov (info[dot]drinkingwater[at]odhsoha[dot]oregon[dot]gov)

We appreciate our community members who ask questions and stay engaged. If you ever have concerns, please reach out—City staff and elected officials are available to communicate with you anytime, not only during Council meetings. Working together and using reliable information helps keep Boardman informed and confident in our public services.

Brandon Hammond

Brandon Hammond

City Manager

541-481-9252

https://www.cityofboardman.com/meetings