2002 Drinking Water Quality Report

The following is part of the section of the 2002 Drinking Water Quality Report for MUD 167 dealing with radioactive contaminants:

About the Radium 226 and Gross Alpha Particle Activity detections: These combined radium (i.e., radium 226 and radium 228, collectively) and gross alpha particle activity radiological results were obtained following the collection of four quarterly grab samples by TCEQ in February, June, September and December 2002, and testing of the aggregated composite sample by the Texas Department of Health (“TDH”) in April 2003. We received a copy of these radiological results on April 23, 2003, at which time we determined that these combined radium (for radium 226) and gross alpha particle activity values exceeded the applicable MCLs of 5 pCi/l and 15 pCi/l, respectively, and thus constituted a violation of State drinking water standards at that time. Notice of these findings was provided to you after this determination was made. We believe these combined radium and gross alpha particle activity findings are naturally occurring as a result of localized geologic conditions resulting from the migration of groundwater across subsurface stratums containing elevated levels of radionucliides. We are working with the TCEQ to resolve this matter and are considering such mitigating strategies as blending the existing water source with another water source, drilling a new water well, and/or converting in whole or in part to surface water use. We regret the occurrence of this condition and are currently implementing a plan to monitor combined radium and gross alpha particle activity levels on a quarterly basis. You should know that certain minerals are radioactive and emit a form of radiation known as alpha radiation. Some people who drink water containing alpha emitters in excess of the MCL over many years have an increased risk of getting cancer. You should also know that some people who drink water containing radium 226 in excess of the MCL over many years have an increased risk of getting cancer. If you want more information about combined radium, gross alpha particle activity, or what we are doing in response to the findings made, please contact Mr. Frank Garcia of Severn Trent Services, our water system operator, at (281) 578-4266.