Water System Monthly MCL Violation August 29, 2008
Press Release # 1
During last weeks routine water samples, the Town of Amherst water system violated the
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Total Coliform Bacteria in its water supply. Of the 45 samples
taken this month, two samples were positive for total coliform around the UMASS campus and one
sample in North Amherst was positive for E. Coli bacteria.
Coliform bacteria are generally not harmful themselves. Coliform bacteria, which are naturally
present in the environment, are used as an indicator that other potentially harmful bacteria are present.
Coliform bacteria was found in more samples than allowed by Department of Environmental Protection
(DEP) regulations, this is a warning of potential problems.
E. Coli is a type of fecal bacteria commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. Very
few strains of E. Coli cause disease, but they can cause gastro intestinal issues such as cramps and
diarrhea.
Due to the three positive samples DEP has required that ten additional water samples be taken
around the contamination sites. These samples are being taken on Friday 8/29/08 and the results will be
received on Saturday afternoon 8/30/08.
If the additional ten samples are bacteria free, then the town will have committed a monthly MCL
violation and the event will be over. If any of the ten samples are positive for total Coliform or E. Coli
bacteria the town will need to issue a “Boil Water Order” for part or all of the town.
The following steps should be taken if a “Boil Water Order” is put in effect.
1. If you boil tap water for 1 minute or longer it can be ingested.
2. Washing of food should be done using bottled or boiled water or use disposable
kitchenware.
3. Dishes washed in 160° water are safe, otherwise wash dishes with boiled or bottled
water.
4. Brush teeth with boiled or bottled water.
5. Normal showering is fine, but do not ingest any water. Sponge baths are recommended
for children.
6. Additional information can be found at www.epa.gov/safewater/ecoli.html
If a Boil Water Order is put into effect, it will last for a minimum of four days or until 3
consecutive bacteria free samples are taken.
We expect to have the additional test results back Saturday 8/30/08 in the afternoon and will
release additional information at that time. Further questions can be directed to the DPW at 259-3050.