It has the potential to cause cancer in humans. DOH sampled in 1993-1994 and again in 1996, confirming PCE contamination. At this time, the county health department advised owners of the contaminated wells to use an alternate water supply for drinking and cooking. Bottled water is being used at those properties. From 1997 to 1999, Ecology led the investigation at the site.
Additional investigations are underway at both source areas.
These two laws are commonly known as Superfund. The Superfund process is complex and can take many years to complete. If an immediate problem threatens public health or the environment, EPA also has the authority under Superfund to address the situation quickly through a removal action. The following comments were gathered from meetings held in August 2000 with the Lewis County Commissioners, the Lewis County Health Department, and several local residents. EPA also spoke to the Washington State Department of Health.