TOWN OF PHENIX WATER

DRINKING WATER NOTICE

TOWN OF PHENIX WATER SUPPLY HAS LEVELS OF GROSS ALPHA AND COMBINED RADIUM ABOVE DRINKING WATER STANDARDS

Testing indicates the Town of Phenix water supply at the entry point for Well Nos. 1 and 2 has exceeded drinking water standards. Although this is not an emergency, as our customer, you have the right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we are doing to correct this situation.

What happened?

We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of our regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. We are required to monitor your drinking water for Radiological contaminants on a quarterly basis. The Primary Maximum Contaminant Level (PMCL) for Total Gross Alpha is a running annual average (RAA) of 15.0 pCi/L, and for Combined Radium is 5.0pCi/L. Based on test results for routine samples collected during the last four calendar quarters ending December 2019, the RAA for Gross Alpha is 20.1 pCi/L, and for Combined Radium is 5.5 pCi/L. Therefore, our system has exceeded the PMCL for Gross Alpha and Combined Radium.

What does this mean?

There is not an immediate risk. If there had been, you would have been notified immediately. However, some people who drink water containing Gross Alpha and Combined Radium in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

What should consumers do?

You do not need to use an alernative (e.g., bottled) water supply. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your health care provider.

What is being done?

The Town of Phenix is reviewing infrastructure and operational alternatives through in-house evaluations and consultations with the Virginia Department of Health. The public will be informed as more specific solutions and plans occur.

For more information, please contact Mayor Dean Evans, Town of Phenix or at the town office (434-542-4123) or contact Town Manager, Walt Bailey or send concerns to the Town address at P.O. Box 29, Phenix, VA 23959.

Please share this information with all other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly. This notice will be on our Town Bulletin Board.

This notice is being sent to you by the Town of Phenix. All water customers will get a copy in their 3/3/20 water bills.