Water contaminated in Wyoming wells

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Sample results indicate that the presence of petroleum hydrocarbons and other chemical compounds in groundwater represents a drinking water concern. EPA has not made any conclusions about the sources of chemical compounds found in drinking water wells.

ATSDR’s analysis of sample results did not find health concerns related to inhalation exposure to chemicals while showering or using evaporative coolers.

Over the past week, officials from EPA and ATSDR met privately with individual residents to provide health information and recommendations based on well-specific sampling results.

EPA is working closely with various government partners and EnCana, the primary gas producer in the area, to ensure that affected residents receive water and to address potential sources. This includes securing access to alternate water sources, as well as the evaluation of potential long-term solutions such as water treatment systems and infrastructure.

EPA said it and partners will work on the details of agreements over the next several weeks and will consult with the community to ensure actions taken to secure safe water meet local needs.

EPA said the sampling detected several petroleum hydrocarbons, including benzene and methane, in wells and in groundwater. EPA found low levels of petroleum compounds in 17 of 19 drinking water wells sampled.

Sample results also confirm that nearby shallow groundwater is contaminated with high levels of petroleum compounds. There is uncertainty regarding the potential for this contaminated shallow groundwater to migrate to the drinking water aquifer.

EPA also found a number of inorganic constituents such as sodium and sulfates in drinking and groundwater wells. Concentrations of these compounds and metals were generally within ranges identified in previous studies.