June 5, 2007

EPA Public Notice: Domestic Well Sampling (Deer Lodge Valley)

Attention: Residents with drinking water wells located in the historic 100-year floodplain of the Clark Fork River

June 6 through June 27, 2007

EPA's contractors will be calling ahead asking certain residents for permission to sample select drinking water systems during the month of June 2007. This activity is a follow-up to a similar sampling performed in 1987 (Clark Fork River Site Screening Study). The purpose of the original study was to determine if wells had been adversely impacted by tailings historically deposited within the floodplain. The original study covered an area from Warm Springs to Milltown.

The purpose of the current study is to look for differences in the metal concentrations since the previous sampling. EPA will only be asking to sample wells located in the Deer Lodge Valley. EPA does not expect an increase in metals concentrations.

EPA would appreciate the opportunity to conduct ongoing monitoring by sampling selected wells. This study will involve sampling approximately 30 previously sampled wells. In addition, permission will be requested to sample other domestic wells installed within the historic 100-year floodplain since 1987. In total, it is estimated that approximately 50 wells will be sampled.

If your well is selected for the current study, EPA would greatly appreciate your permission to collect a sample. Actual sampling takes only a couple of minutes and requires the collection of about 1/2 gallon of water from a faucet closest to your well. As a participant, you will receive a copy of all analytical results from your sample.

If you have any questions about this activity, please contact Kris Knutson at the EPA office in Helena at: (406) 457-5000.