In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical water quality issues affecting the west system's production capabilities. Currently, the system operates with three wells, but well number two is offline due to significant water quality concerns. Tests reveal that iron levels in the water are approximately double the secondary contaminant level recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), while manganese levels are alarmingly ten times higher than the recommended threshold.

Zach, a representative from the water management team, highlighted the historical challenges associated with well two, noting that when it was operational, the system required frequent flushing to mitigate the effects of manganese oxidation. The team previously flushed the system three times a week, but this has since decreased to sporadic flushes due to reliance on well three, which was drilled as an emergency measure.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing these water quality issues, as the current production from wells one and three is nearing the operational limit. Well one produces 545 gallons per minute, while well three produces 485 gallons per minute. Together, they can meet the average daily demand of 700,000 gallons, but they are approaching a critical threshold of nearly 12 hours of operation per day. If well one were to fail during peak usage periods, the system would struggle to meet demand, potentially leading to water shortages.

Officials emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the reliability of the water supply and to prevent future crises. The discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining water quality and the operational integrity of the west system to safeguard public health and meet community needs.