PRICE WOODLANDS WATER TEST RESULTS

The recently-released results from the analysis of water drawn from the test wells on the Price Woodlands site provide some very good news. While the initial preliminary results indicated high levels of iron and manganese that would have required an expensive treatment system if that water were used as public water supply.

It had been suspected that the high levels in the initial tests were caused by the rust in the steel well casing used for the test. This time the test well was flushed by pumping 6800 gallons of water before the samples were taken. This time the analysis showed that the water quality meets all Massachusetts primary drinking water standards. No volatile organic compounds were detected. Manganese and pH levels were slightly above secondary standards, but these can easily be addressed.

Regardless of whether a public water supply for the Town Center is appropriate or a good idea at this time, these test results are very good news. It is always beneficial to be prepared for the future. Whether a system is pursued now or not, these test results provide evidence that a solution to water quality and/or supply issues is available should it be necessary. It is precisely for this reason that the Planning Board supported the acquisition of Price Woodlands in 1997 with the proviso that it be set aside as a future municipal well site.

The report with the water test results is available on the Planning Board web site.