Review copper testing results and copper toxicity . Water testing in October 1993 at Bear Valley demonstrated a possible problem with elevated copper levels. Unfortunately, the water samples may not have been collected according to the EPA protocol. Thus, excess copper was found in water tested from some taps and faucets when they were first used each day. Therefore, it is likely that copper levels during the remainder of the school day were not elevated.
Copper is an essential nutrient needed for healthy growth, development, and metabolism.
Because copper is found in many foods, copper deficiency is extremely rare. There are numerous reports of gastrointestinal irritation shortly after consumption of water containing large amounts of copper symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. This level is much lower than the concentrations needed to cause gastrointestinal irritation.