Despite negative test, Jackson water supply is safe

An Environmental Protection Agency test indicated one of 7 active water wells used by the Town of Jackson had a detectable level of benzene, but remains far below levels which require any sort of immediate reporting or remediation efforts. The town received the notification by e-mail on Monday, November 28.

The sample exceeded the federal “detection level” with a result of 1.6 mg/L benzene. The EPA’s threshold level of benzene allowed in public drinking water is 5.0 mg/L as established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

But the Jackson Public Works Department said the town’s water supply remains safe to drink.

Water Utility Manager John Ryan said the only action EPA is requiring at this time is an increase of sampling for benzene levels. Results from latest water samples are expected in the next 2 to 3 weeks.

“If the results returned with levels which were even close to posing a threat to public health and safety we would take immediate action to remedy the situation,” said Town Manager Bob McLaurin. He said town personnel are able to immediately shut down individual wells to contain any hazard if water samples indicate any water is unsafe for public consumption.