[Press Release] : Trihalomethane research update available

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2008


Contacts:  
Connie Kacprowicz
Public Information Specialist
(573) 874-7325

Trihalomethane research update available

	(COLUMBIA, MO) - Columbia Water & Light received a first quarter
status report from the University of Missouri’s Water Resources
Research Center on the formation potential of disinfection by-products
in Columbia’s water. The preliminary results show that there is a
formation potential for disinfection by-products in the wells but there
is little variation between the different wells. Initial data also shows
that the water treatment process is not reducing the formation
potential.
	An example of a disinfection by-product that can occur in water
supplies are total trihalomethanes. Columbia has been experiencing
elevated levels of total trihalomethanes. According to the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Protection Agency,
there are health risks when a person is exposed to high levels of
trihalomethanes over a period of 70 years.  
	The Water Resources Research Center will collect and analyze
data through spring of 2009. Meanwhile, Columbia Water and Light is
continuing to look for ways to lower the level of total trihalomethanes.
Chlorine levels were lowered and the water distribution lines in the
furthest reaches of the system have been flushed to keep water moving
through the system. Any changes to the water treatment process must be
weighed very carefully so there are not other problems that occur with
Columbia’s water supply. To fully study the treatment process options,
a request for proposals will be sent to engineering firms. Any suggested
changes to the treatment process will need to be approved by the
Columbia City Council and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

	For a copy of the University of Missouri’s Water Resources
Research Center’s first quarter status report, please go to
GoColumbiaMo.com.


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