Wastewater from septic systems include contaminants such as nitrates, and may also include harmful bacteria, and viruses. Nitrates Bacteria renders nitrogen harmless. However, if the bacteria are not there, or if the bacteria are not given enough time to convert the nitrogen, ammonia and nitrate can be released from the septic system and seep towards our aquifer. When many people use septic systems in a relatively small area and over a period of time, a significant amount of nitrate can accumulate in the aquifer and drinking water wells may become contaminated. For the past seven years, there has been a rise in nitrates in some of the District wells.
Several wells are off line due to high nitrates in the water.
Currently the water from those wells cannot be served to District customers without being treated. Concerned with rising nitrates, the District closely monitored the water and began looking into solutions. After many meetings, discussions, and research, the Board of Directors approved a nitrate removal facility in September 2000. This treatment facility will allow the District to place two wells back in service. The facility is scheduled to be in full operation by fall 2001.