Dear Members of the Sugarloaf Water Association,
I trust this message finds you in good health. As Superintendent of the association, it is imperative for me to maintain transparency and furnish you with crucial details concerning disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in our drinking water supply.
In our surface water treatment process, we employ chlorine disinfection to safeguard against disease-causing agents. However, this method can inadvertently result in the formation of disinfection byproducts when chlorine interacts with natural organic matter present in the water.
Among these byproducts are trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids, which are subject to regulation by the EPA due to their potential health hazards. Some people who drink water containing HAA5 in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
Recent assessments have indicated that our average haloacetic acid levels over the past twelve months surpass the prescribed MCL. Consequently, we are actively enhancing our treatment procedures to alleviate this concern and will keep you informed of our progress. We are currently collaborating with Dirigo Engineering to bolster the removal of organic matter during our surface water treatment process.
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately.
Your safety remains our foremost priority.
At this time, no alternative source of water is necessary. However, if you have any specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
For further information, please visit the EPA website at www.epa.gov/safewater.
I appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we strive to ensure the highest quality of drinking water for our community.
Best regards,
Eric Copeland, Superintendent Sugarloaf Water Association