March 29, 2011

State Health Department Recommends Water Well Testing for Private Wells Near Plainville

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is advising residents who obtain their drinking water from private wells in the Plainville area (Adams County) to test their water for possible groundwater contamination. Routine testing of Plainville’s community water supply wells by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) indicates contaminants could be present in the area’s private wells.

The contaminant tetrachloroethylene was detected at levels lower than the Illinois Groundwater Standard. Although the contaminant’s levels were lower than the standard, this is the same groundwater that serves private wells and it is possible the levels of the contaminants may be higher in private wells.

Residents with private wells located within the area (map below) north of Plainville city limits where they intersect with Angle Street, west of Plainville city limits, south of Plainville city limits and East of State Route 96, are encouraged to have their water tested for volatile organic compounds by a private laboratory.

For a list of laboratories certified to analyze drinking water for volatile organic compounds, for an interpretation of test results, for contaminant health effects information and for recommendations for individuals who regularly consume well water, contact John Smet (john.smet@illinois.gov), Illinois Department of Public Health Peoria Regional Office, 5415 North University, Peoria, IL 61614, phone (309) 693-5360.

The risk of adverse health effects depends on the levels of contaminants in the water and the length of exposure. Long-term exposure to these chemicals may result in an increased health risk to the liver and kidneys.

No violations of State of Illinois or federal drinking water standards have occurred in Plainville’s community water supply . For information concerning the community water supply contact Dean Studer at 217-558-8280 or via email at dean.studer@illinois.gov

This information has been compiled from historic data and is provided to the public to ensure full disclosure of state records.