Introduction to the Issue
A water utility company serving residents south of Chicago has lifted a drinking water advisory for infants after testing last week showed the water had elevated nitrate levels, possibly from runoff of farm fertilizer.
Background of the Contamination
Aqua Illinois issued the all-clear Friday after consulting with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the utility said. Around 111,000 people in Kankakee and Will counties were affected, including customers served by the Kankakee Water Treatment Plant, including the communities of Kankakee, University Park and Peotone, officials said.
Cause of the Contamination
The alert was issued June 7 after recent rains combined with spring agricultural fertilization had increased nitrate levels in the Kankakee River. Nitrates can be harmful to infants less than 6 months old and cause death if not treated, Aqua Illinois said.
Nitrate Levels and Farming Practices
Nitrogen fertilizers are widely used in farming to help the growth of crops. Water sampling results completed June 7 revealed nitrate levels of 11.9 milligrams per liter, which exceed safe guidelines, the company said.
Resolution and Current Status
“River nitrate levels, and those at the monitoring location required by the Illinois EPA are below the required level. Internal monitoring data has corroborated that all other monitoring locations are also under the nitrate limit,” the company said Friday.
Conclusion
The lifting of the drinking water advisory for infants in the south suburbs of Chicago comes as a relief to the approximately 111,000 people affected by the contamination. The incident highlights the importance of monitoring and managing nitrate levels in water supplies, particularly in areas where farming practices may contribute to elevated levels of these harmful substances.
FAQs
- Q: What caused the elevated nitrate levels in the water supply?
A: The elevated nitrate levels were possibly caused by the runoff of farm fertilizer, particularly after recent rains combined with spring agricultural fertilization. - Q: Who was affected by the drinking water advisory?
A: Around 111,000 people in Kankakee and Will counties were affected, including customers served by the Kankakee Water Treatment Plant. - Q: Why are nitrates harmful to infants?
A: Nitrates can be harmful to infants less than 6 months old and can cause death if not treated. - Q: What actions were taken to address the issue?
A: Aqua Illinois worked with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the situation and issued an all-clear once the nitrate levels were found to be below the required limit. - Q: Is the water now safe for all consumers, including infants?
A: Yes, according to Aqua Illinois, the water is once again safe for infants after the nitrate levels were found to be below the safe guidelines.
