Water Harder And Harder To Treat In Newport

Newport officials say the city's main drinking water supply is becoming more difficult to treat, and that has to do with climate change.

The supply is located in two ponds near Easton's Beach and provides water to Aquidneck Island.

City Utilities Director Robert Schultz says rising sea levels and inland flooding have impaired the supply and require stronger treatment.

Officials add a beach barrier will be required to protect the ponds from seawater incursions, which are expected to increase in the coming years.

While final figures are not in, that barrier could cost the city a minimum of 35-million dollars.

(Photo Illustration by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)