Friday, May 26, 2006

Ketchum issues well water advisory

Well owners in west Ketchum should test for contaminants


By EXPRESS STAFF

Ketchum public water is safe to drink, but city officials are advising well owners to test their water for potential contaminants.

There are approximately 200 private wells within the city limits, said Ketchum City Administrator Ron LeBlanc.

"The preponderance of those are in the Bird Drive and Wood River Drive area," he said. "We're advising those people that because of the weather and the flooding there's a chance the well could become contaminated."

South Central District Health has kits for well owners to test their water at the tap.

Ketchum is currently testing its water supply once a week.

"We are taking every precaution," LeBlanc said. "All our wells are monitored and tested by a private, independent lab in Twin Falls."

The most recent sample, taken Tuesday, May 23, came back all clear on Wednesday.

"At this point we're testing weekly, or more frequently if we suspect any contamination," LeBlanc said. "We run tests on a lot of things. Bacteria is the major issue."

The city is adding additional chlorine to its water as a precautionary measure, he said. Those people sensitive to chlorine may detect a slight increase in taste, but most of the disinfectant will have dissipated by the time it comes out of the tap, LeBlanc said.

If any contaminants are found, the city will determine its composition and issue an alert to the public if necessary.




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