Bacteria found in 3-mile water system

Coliform bacteria has been found in the Three Mile Water system.

In a letter to customers, it is explained that four out of the five samples taken in June, showed presence of the bacteria and this is a violation of the drinking water standard, however not an emergency.

People don’t need to boil their water.  People with severely compromised immune systems, families with infants, and some elderly may be at increased risk and may want to contact their health care provider for additional guidance.

Operators of the water system are adding chlorine, flushing lines and re-sampling water.

Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as indicators for other potentially harmful bacteria present in the system, according to the letter.  When coliforms are found at higher levels than allowed, it is taken as a warning of potential problems.  Usually the problems stem from the water system’s treatment or  pipes.

Follow-up testing was performed to see if other bacteria of greater concern, such as E-coli, were present and none of this bacteria was found in subsequent testing. If these organisms are detected Three Mile Water will notify resident’s immediately.  For information, call Owen Beachy at 610-6332.