Water Crisis Looms as Town Faces Nitrate Contamination Issues

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical water supply issues affecting the town, particularly concerning the 300 South well, which has been found to have high nitrate levels. This contamination has led to the well being designated solely for irrigation use, as it does not meet state drinking water quality standards unless mixed with spring water. The situation poses challenges for future water management, especially as plans to upgrade spring boxes may temporarily remove spring water from the supply.

The discussion highlighted the need for proactive planning, as the cost of drilling a new well could reach up to $1.5 million. Officials noted that finding a new aquifer free from nitrate contamination would be essential. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the potential for the town to lose its backup water source during the spring upgrades, which could lead to water shortages.

Additionally, the meeting addressed low water pressure issues in certain subdivisions. A proposal was made to drill a new well at a higher elevation to create a new pressure zone, which would alleviate pressure concerns and provide a reliable water source without nitrate issues. This solution would also allow the 300 South well to be dedicated entirely to irrigation.

The need for an update to the town's capital facilities plan was emphasized, as the current master plan is nearing the end of its effective lifespan. Officials acknowledged that the town must prepare for potential water supply deficiencies in the coming years, particularly as new developments continue to emerge.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of addressing water quality and supply challenges to ensure the town's long-term sustainability and compliance with state regulations.