[Press Release] : Trihalomethane research points toward changing treatment process

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 8, 2009
Contact: Connie Kacprowicz
Columbia Water & Light
Public Information Specialist
(573) 874-7325

Trihalomethane research points toward changing treatment process

	(Columbia, MO) - Although recent testing has shown the levels of
total trihalomethanes in Columbia’s water are below the maximum
contaminant level set by the Environmental Protection Agency, research
continues on the issue. The second quarter report by the University of
Missouri’s Water Resources Research Center shows that 67 percent of
the trihalomethanes form before the water hits the distribution system.
The center has analyzed nearly 800 water samples from the wells, the
treatment plant and the distribution system to help Columbia Water &
Light’s quest to substantially lower the level of trihalomethanes. 
	Total trihalomethanes are a by-product of the water disinfection
process and do not present an immediate danger. They are formed when
chlorine breaks down organic material in the water. Of the recent
samples that were taken by the Water Resources Research Center, the
average level of trihalomethanes was 77 micrograms per liter (ug/L). The
November compliance sample results from the Missouri Department of
Natural Resources show the level at 70 ug/L with the running annual
average at 71.2 ug/L. The Environmental Protection Agency sets the
maximum contaminant level for trihalomethanes at 80 ug/L. In April 2008,
Columbia received a violation for being over the maximum contaminant
level.
	The formation of total trihalomethanes is a complex chemical
reaction that happens over time. Water samples were taken by the Water
Resources Research Center at eight different locations in the
distribution system. The data shows that the trihalomethanes form
quickly after the chlorine is added at the plant. They continue to form
in the distribution system but at a slower rate. To effectively lower
the amount of trihalomethanes, a different approach to treating the
water must be pursued. 
	Columbia Water & Light has been working with the Missouri
Department of Natural Resources to add ammonia in the treatment process
to slow the formation potential of total trihalomethanes. With City
Council approval, the system could be in place by late spring or summer.
The estimated cost of adding ammonia to the water treatment process is
$200,000. This money will come from the Columbia Water & Light reserve
fund. Long-term water treatment solutions can be studied during a water
treatment plant study conducted by an outside firm.

Resources:
Trihalomethane fact page:
http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/WaterandLight/Water/TrihalomethaneInformation.php

University of Missouri’s Water Resources Research Center’s second
quarter report:
http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/WaterandLight/Documents/THMresearch2.pdf 


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