News Release No. 363

DEPARTMENT UPDATES WELL DRILLING ADVISORY
FOR RIVERFRONT SUPERFUND SITE

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, NOV. 5, 2004 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources announced today that it is revising its well drilling advisory for the Riverfront Superfund Site, located in and around the city of New Haven, in Franklin County.

The solvents tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE) have contaminated groundwater beneath downtown New Haven and in a large area southwest of the city. Recent testing has shown that contamination is more widespread and severe than was originally thought. These chemicals are carcinogenic, and should not be consumed.

The new advisory strongly recommends that well drillers consult the department's Geological Survey and Resource Assessment Division (DGLS) for guidance before drilling wells in the following areas:

DGLS geologists will provide well drillers with well construction details using the latest information about the contamination. In areas of severe contamination it may be recommended that wells not be drilled. Following proper drilling procedures is essential for protecting both well users and the groundwater aquifers.

The previous advisory was issued in 2003. New information indicates the contamination is more widespread than was previously known. Studies by EPA continue to provide new information about where high and low levels of contamination exist. By following the new advisory, well drillers will receive specific instructions based on the most up-to-date information about the site.

The department cautions that there are serious risks associated with drilling in or near areas of contamination and there is no guarantee of a clean well. Wells that cause a hazardous situation or deteriorate groundwater quality can be ordered to be plugged.

Well drillers who plan to construct wells within the advisory area should contact Bob Archer, section chief of DGLS's Wellhead Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-368-2165.

For news releases on the Web, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel. For a complete listing of the department's upcoming meetings, hearings and events, visit the department's online calendar at www.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/search.do.

NOTE: A map related to this release is available online at: www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel/newhaven.jpg. Cutline: Revised well drilling advisory area for the Riverfront Superfund site in and around the city of New Haven, Missouri. Map: courtesy of Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Geological Survey and Resource Assessment Division

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