On May 29, 2018, the City of Fountain obtained water samples at the Aga Park treatment facility in preparation for introducing filtered water to our drinking water system.  Eurofins Eaton Analytical, a laboratory certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) authorized to test for Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs), processed the samples and issued laboratory results on June 1, 2018.

The lab report confirmed that the level of contaminants are at non-detectable levels, meaning that the filtered groundwater contains less than 2 parts per trillion (ppt), well below the Health Advisory Level of 70-ppt established by the EPA and adopted by the State of Colorado Department of Health and Environmental (CDPHE).

With the introduction of treated groundwater into our drinking water system on June 18, 2018, I reflect on this historic moment for our community. It is a profoundly successful one due, in large part, to the support of our community coupled with the collaboration between the United States Air Force and leaders at the state and national level

As we continue to navigate this complex issue, we uphold our commitment to transparency and clarity.  We will be obtaining water samples weekly at the Aga Park treatment facility to test PFC levels to verify our filtered groundwater is safe. These certified laboratory results will be posted on our website to view and download.

This month, we will also be starting the second set of treatment filters, located near the Fountain Library. Both of these units will provide up to fifteen-percent (15%) of our water supply on summer days, when demand is at its peak.

I would be remiss if I didn't address the questions being raised about  the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) report release last month, outlining their assessment of PFCs (like the ones discovered in our groundwater).  ATSDR's assessment suggests a Minimum Risk Level (MRL) of 7-ppt for PFOS and 11-ppt for PFOA; much lower than the current EPA limit. Historically, MRLs have not been considered when setting health advisories, but there has never been an issue of this magnitude related to our drinking water. We will continue to stay engaged with this issue and provide you with the latest information related to your drinking water. 

Curtis Mitchell, P.E.
Utilities Director