People are encouraged not to boil the water because that increases the concentration of nitrates as water evaporates. Water from the springs passes through sand filters and a chlorination stage prior to pumping to the base. The water is stored on base and then rechlorinated prior to distribution. It serves a population of about 450, but that number can increase tenfold during contingencies and exercises. The base receives drinking water from two on-base wells.
Water treatment is limited to chlorination and fluoridation.
RAF Mildenhall is located near Lakenheath and serves a population of about 4,000. Mildenhall receives its water from an on-base well and has a backup. The well has trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene contamination. Trichloroethylene is a nonflammable, colorless liquid used mainly as a solvent to remove grease from metal parts. Perchloroethylene is a chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent commonly used in dry-cleaning fluid, spot removers and degreasers.