Langley approves wellhead protection plan

LANGLEY — The Langley City Council unanimously approved the city's long-awaited wellhead protection plan Monday night.

The plan, a state requirement, is designed to protect the city's drinking water from contamination.

Glenn Ahuna prepared the plan for the city and said Langley's water is fairly safe, especially because the city has multiple sources of water.

The city is using the water from two watersheds that are located near the Langley Middle School. Another well is located along Coles Road, but it is currently not in use.

Ahuna warned that there is a minor threat to the water source through five private septic systems and potential pesticide use in the area.

He said that a horse and sheep farm in the area does not pose any danger to the water supply, however.

Now that the plan has been approved, the city is launching an educational campaign, said Kathleen Landel, special assistant to the mayor.

She explained that Langley residents can expect to find a letter in their mailboxes soon that will include a well map and some tips on how to keep them safe. It will also touch on the topics of water conservation and sustainability.

Landel said the city will follow up with quarterly mailings that include tips for protecting water resources.

Contact South Whidbey Record Island Life Michaela Marx Wheatley at mmarxwheatley@southwhidbeyrecord.com or (360) 221-5300.

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