West Hempstead-Hempstead Gardens Water District
Public Notice
Drinking Water Public Health Advisory For MTBE

The West Hempstead-Hempstead Gardens Water District has just found Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE) in the water distribution system, which serves West Hempstead and portions of Franklin Square, Garden City South and Cathedral Gardens and is advising residents not to drink the water.  MTBE was detected in two locations along Hempstead Avenue on June 26, 2006 at concentrations of 14 and 13 mg/L.  The samples were collected on June 23, 2006.  A microgram per liter (mg/l) is equal to one part per billion.  Levels of MTBE slightly exceed the State standard of 10 mg/l, which is designed to protect against possible affects from long-term exposure of 70 years while drinking 2 liters of water per day.

The presence of this chemical at these levels does not constitute an immediate health threat.  However, public water systems that exceed the standard must notify consumers, investigate the problem and implement steps for correcting the problem.  The Nassau County Health Department and the District are investigating the source of contamination.

MTBE is a fuel additive/oxygenate which was once used in gasoline to reduce carbon monoxide and ozone levels.  It has since been banned by the State of New York as a fuel additive.  MTBE in drinking water can affect taste and odor.  Long term exposure to MTBE in drinking water has been determined to be a health risk.

The level of exposure to MTBE is relatively low.  However, some people may wish to take practical measures, which will reduce their exposure.  Individuals should use bottled water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth and making ice.  Since the chemical tends to evaporate into the air, using kitchen or bathroom exhaust fans when using water will reduce the amount of chemical in the air.  Use of less water for bathing or cleaning will reduce exposure from breathing the vapors and through skin contact.

The supply wells at the Birch Street Plant have been found to be the source of the MTBE and have been removed from service.  The source of the MTBE is thought to be from an unknown gasoline spill off site.  The interconnection with the Village of Garden City is being used to supply West Hempstead Water.  The Water District is currently flushing the system and is taking additional samples throughout the system.  The public is urged not to drink the water (and also advise others who may drink the water), until the contamination is completely removed from the system.  The public will be notified once all water quality samples are within New York State drinking water standards.

You may find additional information at the West Hempstead Water District website.

June 28, 2006 - Ban on Local Drinking Water Lifted