I just got this this morning.
From: Grande, Joseph
Sent: Wednesday, August 15, 2007 4:53 PM
To: WU GROUP
Cc: Cnare, Lauren; ‘percy.mather@dnr.state.wi.us’; ‘gwharrin@facstaff.wisc.edu’; ‘georgemeyer@tds.net’; ‘standridge_consulting@copper.net’; Schlenker, ThomasSubject: Well 28 elevated fluoride
On Tuesday, August 14, as part of routine water quality testing, the Water Utility discovered that water from Well 28 had an elevated amount of fluoride, a water additive that promotes dental health. A water sample collected as water enters the distribution system measured 3.3 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride compared to the target level of 1.1 ppm. The EPA maximum contaminant level for fluoride is 4 ppm. Short-term exposure to water containing 3-4 ppm fluoride is not considered harmful to human health. The cause of the elevated fluoride, which is believed to be a malfunctioning pump, is currently being investigation by the utility.
Upon discovering the high fluoride level, the well was shutdown and staff was dispatched to determine the extent of high fluoride water. Water testing results (3.14-3.96 ppm) from locations around the periphery of the Well 28 service area (west of Gammon Road and north of the Beltline and Mineral Point Road) suggested the entire service area was impacted. Additional Water Utility staff was dispatched to flush hydrants and clear the high fluoride water from the water mains. Initially, twelve hydrants were opened at the edge of the service area to pull elevated fluoride water away from the well and out of the mains. Later, hydrants on dead-end courts in the affected area were also flushed to clear these mains.
The combined action of shutting down Well 28 and opening multiple hydrants caused many customers on the far west side to experience reduced water pressure and/or discolored water. Some customers also reported temporarily being out of water. By early evening, service was restored to all water customers and Well 28 was delivering water with normal fluoride levels.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
JOEJoseph Grande
Water Quality Manager
Madison Water Utility
608-266-4654
