MDEQ Testing of City of Flint Water Shows TTHM Levels are Well Below the Required Action Level, City No Longer in Violation
Flint, Michigan – September 3, 2015 – The City of Flint has made significant improvements to its water treatment process and distribution system. Annual average results show all locations are within acceptable limits for total trihalomethanes (TTHM) and work continues to ensure that the average stays below the acceptable level. Flint’s TTHM levels have now been below the actionable level for four consecutive quarters, long enough to bring the City out of violation with the Safe Water Drinking Act.
Installation of the Granulated Activated Carbon filter mediums in July has had a significant impact on the reduction of total organic carbon (TOC) and is expected to continue to do so. TOC contact with chlorine can lead to the creation of the chemical byproduct trihalomethanes. By reducing the amount of TOC in the treated water, the amount of TTHM in the water fell as a direct result.
“The City of Flint is continuing to improve its water system including both the areas of treatment and distribution,” said Mayor Dayne Walling. “As the issue of trihalomethanes comes under control and the City is no longer in violation of safety standards, it will work with the MDEQ on implementing water optimization measures to reduce the corrosive effects of water on older pipes and home service lines.” Older pipes and service lines can contain lead solder which can leach into the water over time.
Flint has been looking at the water optimization option for some time and is now looking at taking accelerated steps toward implementation. According to the MDEQ, a typical water optimization plan can take up to five years to complete, as in the case of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. The City of Flint plans to have its water optimization measures in place by the beginning of 2016. This measure, combined with the ongoing improvements to the distribution system wherever possible, will improve water quality and extend the performance of the City’s aging infrastructure.
“The City of Flint has been in constant communication with the MDEQ in our continuing efforts to upgrade and improve our water system,” said Director of Public Works Howard Croft. “We have received assurances from them that every step we have taken has been in line with their recommended actions. The City will continue to work to ensure safe, quality water to its residents, businesses and visitors.”
The City of Flint will continue to provide updates on its water progress through its website, cityofflint.com. Anyone with water issues is encouraged to call 810-766-7202 so that they can be addressed. Residents wishing to receive a free and independent in-home water test can call 810-787-6537 or emailflintwater@cityofflint.com.
