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| SAN GERMAN GROUND WATER CONTAMINATION | San German, Puerto Rico | |
Site Location:
The San German Ground Water Contamination site consists of a ground
water plume with several potential sources of contamination. The site
is located in the municipality of San German, Puerto Rico.
Site History:
The San German Urbano public water system consists of seven wells and
two surface water intakes serving an estimated population of 25,000
people. Industrial activity in the area has contributed to
contamination of these wells, one of which was ordered closed by the
Puerto Rico Department of Health (PRDOH) due to high levels of chemical
solvents in the water. Other wells have shown lower levels of
contamination during routine monitoring. Nearby manufacturing
facilities are believed to be sources of the contamination.
Site Contamination/Contaminants:
The contaminants of concern are tetrachloroethylene (PCE),
trichloroethylene (TCE), and cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (cis-1,2-DCE).
These chemicals are solvents used in areas such as degreasing,
industrial cleaning, and dry cleaning. The contaminants are believed to
have adverse health effects when ingested or inhaled.
Potential Impacts on Surrounding Community/Environment:
The drinking water supply for San German relies on local water. The
contaminated plume lies within a designated Wellhead Protection Area,
indicating that the local groundwater is a necessary component of the
municipal drinking water supply. One well has already been taken out of
service due to contamination; other wells are showing levels of
contamination that require monitoring in order to protect public health.
With inclusion of this site on the National Priorities List, EPA will
begin an investigation to determine the sources of contamination, and
continue to monitor the drinking water supply for San German.
Response Activities (to date):
In January 2007, EPA initiated an investigation of three locations in
San German which were identified as potential sources to the ground
water plume. Surface and subsurface soil samples and ground water
samples were collected from the ara. As a result of this effort,
potential sources of the ground water plume have been identified. EPA
will expand this investigation to further define the nature and extent
of the contamination. The PRDOH has taken action to protect human health
by monitoring the drinking water supply, and removing a contaminated
well from the distribution system.
[The description of the site (release) is based on information available at the time the site was evaluated with the HRS. The description may change as additional information is gathered on the sources and extent of contamination. See 56 FR 5600, February 11, 1991, or subsequent FR notices.]
For more information about the hazardous substances identified in this narrative summary, including general information regarding the effects of exposure to these substances on human health, please see the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) ToxFAQs. ATSDR ToxFAQs can be found on the Internet at http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html or by telephone at 1-888-42-ATSDR or 1-888-422-8737.