Rear Admiral Brett Mietus, commander of Joint Region Marianas, is reassuring the community that drinking water on Guam’s military installations remains safe, despite the recent discovery of elevated dieldrin levels at a Yigo production well. 

The pesticide, banned since 1987, was found near Andersen Air Force Base, but does not supply water to the base itself. Still, with some service members living in the affected area, the military has accelerated testing of all wells.

Initial samples are complete, with results pending from an off-island lab. Mietus says JRM is in close contact with Acting Governor Josh Tenorio and is exploring ways the military can support civilian efforts.

Residents are reminded that the Guam Waterworks Authority remains the lead source for guidance and advisories. For now, GWA is urging residents in the impacted area not to drink or cook with the water and to use tanker fill stations until further notice.