Lamar investigates Possible Lead Contamination in Dead Cattle

On Thursday, May 12, 2011, the City of Lamar was notified that 23 calves pastured on land leased from the City had died. Two of the animals were autopsied and it was determined that death was due to lead contamination.

There are a number of possible sources of lead in the environment. The City may not positively identify the source of lead ingested by the cattle that were on that pasture. The cattle have been moved to other property and await further testing. The City is coordinating with the landowner as well as federal, state, and county agencies to resolve this situation completely and equitably.

There was an outflow of water from the 6-million gallon water storage tank onto the pasture. Seventeen water samples taken from various locations on the two water tanks were tested for lead and other heavy metals by an independent laboratory. The results for lead content from all samples average 18 parts per billion which is considerably less than the maximum content allowed by Colorado statutes. Water provided by the City of Lamar Water Department exceeds safe drinking water standards.

The health and safety of all citizens will always be our first priority.

Bill Pfeilsticker
Deputy Lamar City Administrator