OTSEGO (WKZO AM/FM) — The first test results from wells in the Otsego Area are back and they may be cause for concern.
Health Officials tested 56 wells because of a feeling in the community that there may be a cancer-cluster in the area caused by something in the air or water.
The first test results released this weekend revealed that there does appear to be dioxins in the 16 water well samples that were tested that have come back.
Apparently it will take additional testing to determine what the concentrations are, and whether it poses any public risk.
14 of the wells are in Allegan County and two of them are in northern Alamo Township in Kalamazoo County. It’s enough of a concern for the MDEQ to provide bottled water to the 16-households “out of an abundance of caution”.
These initial tests were designed to detect a broad spectrum of possible contaminants. They were also conducted at several potential plant and landfill sites where there might be a groundwater concern.
More of the initial tests results from the first batch of sites are expected back in the coming days.
They will be analyzed and the homeowners will be notified of the findings, and then the public.
The next round of testing will be based on what they learn from the initial results.
A telephone hotline has been established for residents in the Otsego area who want to know more about water well testing being done in the area. You can call 269-686-4546 daily between the hours of 8 am – 8 pm.
They also have a website. It’s at www.allegancounty.org then click on “GROUND WATER INVESTIGATIONS”. It will be updated daily.
For more information on dioxin, there is this website. https://www.epa.gov/dioxin/learn-about-dioxin
