The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued a news release yesterday to update the public following a hexavalent chromium release to the Wixom Sewage Treatment Facility from Tribar Manufacturing in Wixom. The sewer feeds the Wixom wastewater treatment plant, which discharges to the Huron River. Read the release at https://content.govdelivery.com/.../MIDEQ/bulletins/32684e6
What we know.
There is no immediate threat to Ann Arbor's drinking water. It remains safe for all uses. Although the closest drinking water intake is in Ann Arbor, the time-of-travel modeling indicates it would take the contaminant several weeks or more to make its way to the city's water intakes. In addition, currently, there are no recreational limitations in the river for canoe liveries or recreation in Ann Arbor.
What we are doing.
The city is increasing its monitoring in the Huron River so we are able to identify when and if the chromium plume reaches our intake. We are also working with EGLE to identify means to optimize our treatment for chromium removal should it become necessary.
What we don't know.
There are many questions we do not have answers for yet. However, staff are working around the clock to implement sampling protocols and develop a response plan in coordination with state and local agencies. We will update the public on this plan as soon as it is solidified.
How to get updates
We are committed to informing our community of any plans once developed as well as analytical test data related to this spill. All information will be posted on the project webpage: https://www.a2gov.org/.../wate.../Pages/Chromium-Spill-.aspx. This website will be updated as frequently as information becomes available.
Original source can be found here.
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