University Information Concerning Test Results Reported Above

Misericordia University conducts water quality testing of the water produced by the wells on campus and has done so successfully for many years. The results of these tests are reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. In a routine test of the standard 10 locations on campus, two were found to have higher than acceptable levels for lead. One location is a mop sink in a rarely used area of Gildea Hall. The other is a water fountain that has also fallen into disuse in the lower level of Mercy Hall. After inspection and flushing of those lines, a subsequent retest of all 10 locations indicated that water from those areas now passed the DEP benchmarks. In the interest of the well-being of our community, a third round of testing, including an expanded list totaling 25 water fixtures in multiple buildings serviced by the wells, all passed the DEP water quality standard for lead levels. Those results are available here LEAD AND COPPER TESTING CONDUCTED

The substandard test, however, has triggered a DEP required public posting for campus and visitors. That required content has been shared via email, bulletin board posts, and the university web page [web link]. Additional testing will occur this spring and next fall to ensure levels are acceptable. To be clear, with the exception of this single test of the rarely used mop sink in the basement of Gildea and the disused water fountain, our water has always passed the DEP testing. Our utility management service as well as our Facilities Department are monitoring the situation and conducting additional flushing and water conditioning as needed. Misericordia University properties along Lake Street, including the townhouses and Anderson Sport and Health Center, are subject to public water sources, not the wells, and are covered under that public utility’s testing program.

We will keep the campus informed regarding any additional developments.